Every summer, studios rush to get the biggest moneymakers into the theaters. More explosions typically equal more dollars for the studios. However, this summer, they are banking on a different type of special effect: 3D.

As noted in a recent Los Angeles Times article, many of the big summer movies won't indulge in the latest craze. Iron Man 2, Robin Hood, Salt, Knight and Day and Eat, Pray, Love are all expected to do well this summer. However, will they be able to do as well as films raking in an extra $3 to $5 per ticket?

It all depends on whether you'll be able to see them. There are quiet a few 3D selections coming this summer. Let's take a look at how you might want to ration your summer entertainment budget:

Shrek Forever After: The last in the Shrek franchise opened last month's Tribeca Film Festival -- to not such great reviews. However, the series has grossed over a billion so far and this is the last of the lot. Plus, there is a nice gap of 3D releases between now and when this film hits theaters. Expect it to take in ogre-sized box-office receipts. (May 21)

Toy Story 3: Designed with 3D in mind, this one should be a winner with kids and adults. As the LA Times points out, each of Pixar's 10 films has grossed more than $350 million. They're going to have to make a stinker at some point, but it's certainly not going to be with this already-proven franchise. (June 18)

The Last Airbender: Director M. Night Shyamalan is skating on thin ice with audiences. His last three outings have not exactly lit the box office on fire. Now comes word that his fantasy film is getting a 3D conversion. The studio is using Stereo D, the same people that worked on Avatar. However, we recommend that you proceed with caution. (July 12)

Despicable Me: Funny previews and a roster of famous names (Steve Carell, Jason Segal, Russell Brand, Julie Andrews) is creating good buzz for this Universal outing. However, the animation looks a tad dated, and its PG rating could put the reigns on what could be a more profitable take. (July 9)

Cats & Dogs: the Revenge of Kitty Galore: Was this trip really necessary? Not for you, but Warner seems pretty big on this sequel's potential. It's all about the kiddos on this one, who helped hoist the original to a hearty $200 million at the box office -- and without the 3D. Does any other age group appreciate live-action talking animals? Expect to see a lot of eye-rolling (and bank rolling) from parents. (July 30)

Step Up 3D: The trailer hasn't exactly created good buzz for this movie, which stars a crop of relative unknowns. However, it was shot for 3D and it's the first 3D dance movie, which should say something -- shouldn't it? Touchstone seems to have faith in director John Chu, who brought in $148 million with the franchise's forgettable sequel. (August 6)

Piranha 3-D: Elisabeth Shue? Ving Rhames? Richard Dreyfuss? Eli Roth? It looks like someone called in a few favors. Even Soleil Moon Frye and William Katt have sense not to reprise their roles in this remake of the 1978 original. However, if you are going to bother with a movie about flesh-eating fish, you might as well do it in 3D . (August 27)

[Photo Credit: © 2010 Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment]