IMAX is a proprietary system utilizing high-resolution cameras, film formats, film projectors, and theaters. It's renowned for its exceptionally large screens with a tall aspect ratio (typically 1.43:1, though this is limited to specific locations) and steeply sloped stadium seating, creating an immersive cinematic experience.
1929: Introduction of Fox Grandeur
Fox introduced Fox Grandeur in 1929, marking the first attempt at a 70mm film format, but it was short-lived.
1940: Fantasound System
Walt Disney envisioned the Fantasound system for the original "Fantasia" film in 1940.
1952: Launch of Cinerama
Cinerama, a multi-projector system, debuted in 1952, providing an immersive experience but proving difficult to maintain.
1953: Debut of CinemaScope
CinemaScope emerged in 1953, exploring the use of 35mm film to create wider projected images.
1954: Introduction of VistaVision
Following the trend of wider images, VistaVision was introduced in 1954, further exploring the potential of 35mm film.
September 1967: Founding of Multiscreen Corporation, Ltd.
In September 1967, the company that would later become IMAX, Multiscreen Corporation, Ltd., was founded by Graeme Ferguson, Roman Kroitor, Robert Kerr, and William C. Shaw.
September 1967: Incorporation of Multiscreen Corporation
The company was officially incorporated as Multiscreen Corporation in September 1967, reflecting the initial focus on multi-screen technology.
January 16, 1970: Filing of Key Patent Under Multiscreen Corporation, Limited
A key patent was filed on January 16, 1970, under the original name Multiscreen Corporation, Limited, further solidifying the company's early identity.
1970: Development of IMAX Dome System for Planetariums
In 1970, IMAX embarked on redesigning its system for dome-shaped planetariums. This involved a collaboration with Ernst Leitz Canada, Ltd., who developed a fisheye lens projection system optimized for dome projection. This adaptation addressed the challenges of projecting onto a curved surface.
May 1971: Opening of the First Permanent IMAX Installation
May 1971 marked the opening of the first permanent IMAX installation at the Cinesphere theatre in Toronto, premiering the film "North of Superior."
1973: Opening of the First Permanent IMAX Dome Installation
The world's first permanent IMAX Dome installation opened in 1973 at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in San Diego, demonstrating IMAX's versatility and expansion into different formats.
1973: Premiere of Omnimax Dome System
The Omnimax dome system, developed by IMAX, premiered in 1973 with the films "Voyage to the Outer Planets" and "Garden Isle." This marked a significant milestone in immersive cinema experiences.
1981: "Raiders of the Lost Ark" Original Release
"Raiders of the Lost Ark" was originally released in 1981.
1984: Wonder Woman 1984 Utilizes IMAX Cameras
Despite being set in 1984, Patty Jenkins' Wonder Woman 1984, released in 2020, utilized IMAX cameras for select sequences. This demonstrates the technology's enduring appeal and its ability to enhance films set in various time periods.
1985: IMAX Cameras Journey into Space
In 1985, IMAX cameras embarked on their first space voyage, capturing stunning footage of NASA missions. Notably, an IMAX camera aboard Space Shuttle mission STS-41-C documented the deployment of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) and the repair of the Solar Max satellite. This remarkable footage was featured in the 1985 IMAX film "The Dream Is Alive."
1985: IMAX Dome Installation at National Museum of Natural Science
In 1985, the National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, Taiwan installed its original IMAX Dome 1570 projection system.
1986: First Full-Color IMAX 3D Film
The first full-color IMAX 3D film was the 1986 short documentary "Transitions," produced for Expo 86 in Vancouver.
1987: IMAX Dome Installation at Science Centre Singapore
In 1987, the Omni-Theatre at Science Centre Singapore installed its original IMAX Dome 1570 projection system.
1988: IMAX Dome Installation at Tietomaa Science Centre
In 1988, the Tietomaa Science Centre in Oulu, Finland installed an IMAX 8/70 equipment.
1990: Filming of "The Rolling Stones: Live at the Max"
Concert footage for "The Rolling Stones: Live at the Max" was filmed in IMAX during the band's 1990 Steel Wheels tour.
1991: Release of "The Rolling Stones: Live at the Max"
"The Rolling Stones: Live at the Max," an 85-minute compilation of concert footage filmed in IMAX during the band's 1990 Steel Wheels tour, was released in 1991.
1992: IMAX HD Test at Seville Expo '92
The IMAX HD system, using 48 frames per second, was tested in 1992 at the Canada Pavilion of the Seville Expo '92 with the film "Momentum."
1993: IMAX Dome Installation at Liberty Science Center
In 1993, the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium at Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey installed an IMAX Dome 1570 projection system, at the time the largest in the world.
1995: Release of "Wings of Courage"
"Wings of Courage," the first dramatic picture shot for IMAX, directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, was released in 1995.
1995: "Apollo 13" Re-released in IMAX
The 1995 film "Apollo 13" was re-released in IMAX in 2002 using the new DMR process.
1996: IMAX Receives Oscar for Scientific and Technical Achievement
IMAX was honored with a prestigious Oscar for Scientific and Technical Achievement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1996. This award recognized IMAX's significant contributions to filmmaking, particularly their development of a method for filming and presenting large-format, wide-angle motion pictures.
1998: Release of "T-Rex: Back to the Cretaceous"
"T-Rex: Back to the Cretaceous," an entertainment short film, was released in 1998.
1998: Introduction of the IMAX SR system
In 1998, IMAX introduced the SR system, a more affordable alternative to the larger GT system, featuring slightly smaller screens but still maintaining a 1.43:1 aspect ratio in purpose-built auditoriums.
1999: Release of "More" and "The Old Man and the Sea"
"More" and "The Old Man and the Sea" became the first short films produced using the IMAX format, both earning Academy Award nominations in 1999. "The Old Man and the Sea" won, becoming the only IMAX film to do so.
2000: Release of "Fantasia 2000"
Disney produced "Fantasia 2000," the first full-length animated feature initially released exclusively in the IMAX format, in 2000.
2000: Release of "Fantasia 2000"
Walt Disney Pictures released "Fantasia 2000" on New Year's Day in 2000, marking the studio's first IMAX release and the first theatrical feature presented in IMAX theaters.
2001: Release of "Haunted Castle"
"Haunted Castle," a 3D entertainment short film, was released in 2001.
2002: IMAX Re-releases of Disney Classics
IMAX re-issues of "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Lion King" were released in select theaters over the winter and Christmas seasons of 2002. "Treasure Planet" was also released in select IMAX theaters, marking the first theatrical film released in regular and IMAX theaters simultaneously.
2002: IMAX DMR Process Introduced
IMAX's proprietary DMR (Digital Media Remastering) process, which up-converts conventional films to IMAX format, was first used in 2002 for "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones" and a re-release of "Apollo 13" (1995).
2002: Conversion of Feature Films to IMAX Format
Beginning in 2002, IMAX began converting feature films into its format, making a larger library of content available for its theaters and expanding its appeal to Hollywood studios and audiences.
2003: Warner Bros. Embraces IMAX
With the unveiling of the DMR process, Warner Bros. Pictures began releasing films in IMAX, starting with the two Matrix sequels, "Reloaded" and "Revolutions", in 2003.
2003: Pause in Classic Film Re-releases
After "The Lion King" in 2003, no Hollywood studio engaged in re-releasing and restoring classic films through the IMAX DMR process until 2012.
2004: Introduction of the IMAX MPX system
In 2004, IMAX further aimed to increase accessibility with the MPX system, designed to retrofit existing multiplex auditoriums, although this came at the expense of some of the quality offered by the GT experience.
2004: Warner Bros. Continues IMAX Releases
Warner Bros. continued releasing films in IMAX in 2004, including "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" and "The Polar Express" in 3D.
July 2005: BFI IMAX Cinema Pioneers Live Music Concerts and Alternative Events
July 2005 witnessed a pioneering moment as the BFI IMAX Cinema in London became the first to host live music concerts using a digital non-IMAX projector. This marked an expansion of IMAX theaters beyond traditional film screenings. The Science Museum London and BFI IMAX Cinema also embraced new opportunities by hosting computer game tournaments using digital projectors.
2006: Release of "Roving Mars"
"Roving Mars," a film about the Mars Exploration Rovers, was released in 2006, using exclusive data from the rovers.
2007: IMAX Ends 2007 with 299 Screens Worldwide
At the end of 2007, IMAX had 299 screens worldwide, marking a point just before their rapid expansion with the introduction of more affordable systems.
July 2008: IMAX Introduces Digital Projection System
In July 2008, IMAX ventured into the world of digital cinema by introducing a new digital projection system. This system was specifically designed for multiplex theaters with smaller screens, offering an alternative to their large-format film projectors.
2008: Launch of IMAX Digital 2K
IMAX introduced the IMAX Digital 2K system in 2008, marking a move towards digital projection and offering a more cost-effective way to retrofit existing theaters, though with a resolution lower than the original 70mm film.
2008: Debut of IMAX's Digital Cinema Projection System
IMAX's digital cinema projection system debuted in 2008, offering 2D and 3D content in DCI or IMAX Digital Format (IDF). It initially used 2K-resolution Christie xenon projectors but transitioned to Barco projectors in 2012.
2008: Debut of IMAX Digital Projection System
IMAX debuted a digital projection system in 2008 to use with shorter 1.89:1 aspect ratio screens.
2008: "The Dark Knight" Features IMAX Footage
"The Dark Knight", released in 2008, was the first major feature film to be partially shot using IMAX cameras, with 28 minutes of footage in the format.
2008: Introduction of Digital IMAX
IMAX ventured into traditional theaters in 2008 with the launch of Digital IMAX, a more affordable system using two 2K digital projectors and a 1.90:1 aspect ratio screen, making it easier to convert existing multiplex theaters.
May 2009: "Star Trek" IMAX Release
In May 2009, J.J. Abrams's "Star Trek" was released in IMAX venues for the initial two weeks of its theatrical run and opened to $8.3 million.
September 30, 2009: Closure of the First Permanent IMAX 3D Theatre
The first permanent IMAX 3D theatre, located in Vancouver and opened for Expo '86, closed on September 30, 2009.
2010: Warner Bros. Signs IMAX Deal
In 2010, after years of successful IMAX DMR releases, Warner Bros. signed a deal to release up to 20 feature films in IMAX until 2013, including educational documentaries.
December 16, 2011: Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol IMAX Release
On December 16, 2011, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, directed by Brad Bird, was released in almost 500 IMAX venues worldwide. This release, a week prior to the film's wide release, featured 25 minutes of footage shot with IMAX cameras and marked a significant step in the use of IMAX technology in mainstream filmmaking.
2011: Development of a 4K 3D Digital Camera
IMAX announced a 4K 3D digital camera in 2011, developed in collaboration with Vision Research and AbelCine, showcasing a step towards more advanced digital capture for IMAX films.
February 2012: IMAX Announces Hybrid Projection System for Select Locations
In February 2012, IMAX announced plans to renovate select theaters to accommodate both 70mm analog and digital presentations. This hybrid system, utilizing a rail system to switch between projectors, was implemented in preparation for the release of "The Dark Knight Rises" in July 2012.
April 2012: IMAX Begins Testing 4K Laser Projection System
IMAX began testing a new 4K laser projection system in April 2012, utilizing patents licensed from Eastman Kodak. This system, employing two projectors, aimed to improve upon the smaller digital screens while maintaining the traditional IMAX aspect ratio.
July 2012: IMAX Debuts Hybrid Projection System with "The Dark Knight Rises"
IMAX's hybrid projection system, capable of both 70mm analog and digital presentations, was launched in July 2012, coinciding with the release of "The Dark Knight Rises." This marked a significant step in IMAX's adaptation to the evolving landscape of cinema technology.
August 2012: IMAX and Paramount Announce "Raiders of the Lost Ark" Re-release
In August 2012, IMAX and Paramount Pictures announced a one-week exclusive re-release of "Raiders of the Lost Ark" to promote the release of the Blu-Ray collection.
September 7, 2012: "Raiders of the Lost Ark" Re-released in IMAX
Paramount Pictures re-released "Raiders of the Lost Ark" exclusively in IMAX on September 7, 2012, after it underwent a 4K digital restoration and DMR conversion.
2012: IMAX Switches to Barco as Primary Supplier
In 2012, IMAX announced a significant shift by choosing Barco as their primary supplier for their digital cinema projection systems, moving away from their previous provider.
2013: Rise of IMAX Filming in Blockbusters
2013 saw a notable increase in the use of 15/70 IMAX cameras for filming sequences within major Hollywood productions. Films like Star Trek Into Darkness, directed by J.J. Abrams, embraced this technology, contributing to a growing trend of IMAX integration in mainstream cinema.
2013: IMAX Dome Upgrade at Tietomaa Science Centre
In 2013, the Tietomaa Science Centre in Oulu, Finland, replaced its 1988 IMAX 8/70 equipment with a Barco DP4K-32B 4K projection system.
July 9, 2014: Star Wars: The Force Awakens Employs IMAX Cameras
On July 9, 2014, Bad Robot, J.J. Abrams's production company, announced the use of the IMAX 15/70 perf film camera for a sequence in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. This confirmation, delivered via a Twitter picture, generated significant excitement among fans and the film industry alike.
December 2014: IMAX Launches "IMAX with Laser" Projection System
IMAX launched its dual 4K laser projector system, "IMAX with Laser," in December 2014, with the first installation at the Cineplex Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto. This system allowed for digital projection on both traditional and wider IMAX screens.
2014: "Transformers: Age of Extinction" Shot with Digital IMAX 3D Cameras
Michael Bay's "Transformers: Age of Extinction", released in 2014, was the first feature film shot using digital IMAX 3D cameras.
2014: Continued Use of IMAX in Blockbusters
The trend of incorporating 15/70 IMAX cameras into blockbuster films continued into 2014. Notable releases during this year that featured IMAX footage included The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, directed by Francis Lawrence, Lucy, directed by Luc Besson, and Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan.
2014: Dolby Cinema Emerges as IMAX Competitor
In late 2014, Dolby announced Dolby Cinema, a new competitor to IMAX. Dolby Cinema aimed to provide a premium cinema experience, boasting super-vivid images primarily in High Dynamic Range (HDR) with enhanced shadow detail. This marked increased competition in the large-format cinema market.
2014: Gone with the Bullets Incorporates IMAX Digital Cameras
In 2014, Jiang Wen's Gone with the Bullets, a Chinese production, incorporated IMAX digital cameras for selected scenes. This marked a notable instance of IMAX technology being embraced in Chinese filmmaking.
2014: Launch of IMAX with Laser 4K
In 2014, IMAX launched its Laser 4K system, another digital projection system but with enhanced resolution compared to the 2K, further expanding possibilities for retrofitting existing theaters.
April 2015: Captain America: Civil War Pioneers ARRI Alexa IMAX Camera
In a groundbreaking move in April 2015, Marvel Studios revealed that Captain America: Civil War would be the first film to utilize the then-new ARRI Alexa IMAX 2D digital camera. This camera technology was employed to capture approximately 15 minutes of the film, marking another milestone in the evolution of IMAX filmmaking.
May 2015: Marvel Announces First Full-Length IMAX Feature Films
In May 2015, Marvel Studios announced that "Avengers: Infinity War" (2018) and "Avengers: Endgame" (2019) would be the first Hollywood feature films to be shot entirely in IMAX.
May 2015: Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame to Be Entirely Shot in IMAX
May 2015 witnessed a pivotal moment as the Russo brothers declared that Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, released in 2018 and 2019 respectively, would hold the distinction of being the first Hollywood feature films entirely shot using IMAX cameras. These films employed ARRI Alexa IMAX cameras, pushing the boundaries of immersive cinematic experiences.
2015: "Hello" by Adele: The First Music Video Partially Filmed with IMAX Cameras
Adele's "Hello," released in 2015, marked a turning point for music videos, becoming the first to be partially filmed using IMAX cameras. This groundbreaking use of the technology opened new creative avenues within the music industry.
2015: IMAX Surpasses 1,000 Screens Globally
IMAX reached a milestone by the end of 2015, surpassing 1,000 screens worldwide, largely driven by the success of its lower-cost digital systems.
2015: Development of a 2D Digital Camera with Arri
IMAX, in 2015, unveiled a 2D digital camera created in partnership with Arri, further expanding filmmakers' options for capturing IMAX-quality footage digitally.
May 2016: IMAXShift Test Launch
IMAX announced the test launch of IMAXShift, a multimedia indoor cycling concept, in May 2016.
September 2, 2016: IMAX Announces Virtual Reality Plans
On September 2, 2016, IMAX announced plans to incorporate virtual reality (VR) into the IMAX theater experience.
2016: Canadian Museum of History Replaces IMAX System
The Canadian Museum of History replaced its dome and standard IMAX screen system with a Barco CINE+ digital theater system in 2016, reflecting the broader trend of transitioning to digital cinema technology.
2016: Demolition of Darling Harbour IMAX Screen
The world's largest IMAX screen, located in Darling Harbour, Sydney, was demolished in 2016. This marked the end of an era for the iconic screen.
2016: Rihanna's "Sledgehammer" Music Video Embraces ARRI Alexa IMAX
Rihanna's "Sledgehammer" music video, released in 2016, made a bold statement by becoming the second music video to utilize the groundbreaking ARRI Alexa IMAX camera. This further solidified the camera's growing popularity and its potential in music video production.
2016: "Captain America: Civil War" Uses IMAX Cameras
The Arri Alexa IMAX camera was first used to film select sequences in Marvel's "Captain America: Civil War" in 2016.
2016: Several Films Utilize IMAX Cameras Between 2016 and 2021
Between 2016 and 2021, various films continued to embrace IMAX cameras for select sequences or more significant portions of their productions. These included Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Sully, First Man, The Lion King, Wonder Woman 1984, and No Time to Die, further demonstrating the format's versatility.
June 4, 2017: IMAXShift Discontinuation
IMAX decided to discontinue its multimedia indoor cycling concept, IMAXShift, on June 4, 2017.
September 2017: IMAX Reaches 1,302 Theatres Globally
By September 2017, IMAX had experienced significant growth, with 1,302 theaters operating in 75 countries, a testament to the company's global expansion strategy.
November 3, 2017: Reopening of the Renovated Cinesphere
The Cinesphere in Toronto, after undergoing renovations, reopened on November 3, 2017, equipped with IMAX 70mm and IMAX with laser illumination, showcasing the evolution of IMAX technology.
December 2017: Star Wars: The Last Jedi Utilizes IMAX Cameras
Continuing the trend set by its predecessor, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, released in December 2017, also incorporated sequences captured with 15/70mm IMAX cameras. This decision by director Rian Johnson further cemented the use of IMAX technology within the Star Wars franchise.
2017: Continued Growth and Limited 70mm Capability
By late 2017, while IMAX had 1,302 theater systems globally, less than 25% could project 70mm film at the original large format resolution, indicating a shift towards digital projection.
2017: IMAX Dome Upgrade at Liberty Science Center
In 2017, the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium at Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey, replaced its 1993 IMAX Dome 1570 projection system with an Evans & Sutherland Digistar 6 "True8K" digital system.
April 24, 2018: IMAX Announces Single-Unit Laser Projector System
On April 24, 2018, IMAX announced a single-unit version of their laser projector system, designed to replace the IMAX Xenon digital projection system for 1.89:1 screens. This new iteration was set to roll out later that year.
November 2018: World's First Digital IMAX Laser Dome Theater
In November 2018, the Hackworth IMAX dome in The Tech Museum (now The Tech Interactive) replaced its 70mm IMAX projector with a 4K IMAX Laser projector, becoming the first digital IMAX Laser dome theater in the world.
2018: Exclusive Use of Arri Alexa IMAX for "Avengers: Infinity War"
The Russo brothers exclusively used the Arri Alexa IMAX camera for "Avengers: Infinity War" in 2018, highlighting the camera's capabilities and growing adoption for major productions.
2018: Expansion of the Laser System for Full Dome Installations
IMAX began using its Laser system to retrofit full dome installations in 2018, although the results were mixed due to the challenges posed by the large screen area.
2018: Avengers: Infinity War Becomes First Fully IMAX-Shot Film
Staying true to the announcement made in 2015, Avengers: Infinity War, released in 2018, made history as the first Hollywood feature film shot entirely in IMAX using ARRI Alexa IMAX cameras, setting a new standard for large-scale filmmaking.
2018: First Full-Length Feature Films Shot Entirely with IMAX Cameras
Before 2018, no full-length feature film was shot entirely using IMAX cameras due to the numerous difficulties presented with the format. However, these issues were minimized with the digital Arri Alexa IMAX camera.
2019: Exclusive Use of Arri Alexa IMAX for "Avengers: Endgame"
Continuing their preference for the Arri Alexa IMAX, the Russo brothers again used it exclusively for "Avengers: Endgame" in 2019.
2019: Avengers: Endgame Follows Suit as Fully IMAX-Shot Film
Released in 2019, Avengers: Endgame followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, Infinity War, by being shot entirely in IMAX using ARRI Alexa IMAX cameras. This continued the trend of using cutting-edge technology in blockbuster filmmaking.
September 2020: Launch of the "Filmed for IMAX" Program
In September 2020, IMAX launched its "Filmed for IMAX" program to certify high-quality digital cameras for IMAX filmmaking, streamlining the process for creating content for IMAX theaters.
September 2020: IMAX Launches "Filmed in IMAX" Program
IMAX unveiled its groundbreaking "Filmed in IMAX" program in September 2020. This initiative involves collaborations with major camera manufacturers, including ARRI, Panavision, Red Digital Cinema, and Sony, to certify their digital cameras for seamless integration with the IMAX format during post-production. This program expanded the accessibility and creative possibilities of IMAX filmmaking.
2020: Dunkirk and Tenet: Christopher Nolan's Foray into Extensive IMAX Filming
Christopher Nolan's 2017 film Dunkirk and his 2020 film Tenet marked significant milestones in the use of IMAX cameras. Dunkirk was primarily shot with IMAX cameras, with 75% of the film featuring 70mm IMAX footage, setting a new record. Tenet followed suit, with 76 minutes shot with 15/70mm IMAX cameras. These films highlight Nolan's innovative use of IMAX technology.
2020: IMAX Enhances Laser Projection with Increased Brightness and Contrast
In 2020, IMAX further enhanced its laser projection system, replacing the xenon arc lamp with a laser light source. This resulted in a brighter image, higher contrast ratio, and the ability to display the full Rec. 2020 color gamut. They also introduced a new 12-channel surround sound system.
2020: Chinese Films Embrace IMAX Digital Cameras
The year 2020 saw the release of two Chinese films that fully embraced IMAX digital cameras. Guan Hu's The Eight Hundred and Chen Kaige, Tsui Hark, and Dante Lam's The Battle at Lake Changjin utilized the technology for their entirety, showcasing the growing popularity of IMAX in Chinese cinema. The Battle at Lake Changjin also holds the distinction of being filmed with IMAX-certified Red Ranger Monstro cameras.
May 2021: Closure of IMAX VR Centers
As of May 2021, all seven IMAX VR centers have closed.
2021: Detective Chinatown 3 Employs IMAX Digital Cameras
Released in 2021, Chen Sicheng's Detective Chinatown 3, another Chinese production, utilized IMAX digital cameras for almost its entirety. This continued the trend of Chinese cinema embracing IMAX technology.
2021: IMAX-Certified Cameras Gain Popularity
Between 2021 and 2023, the use of IMAX-certified cameras, like the Sony CineAlta Venice and Arri Alexa LF, became increasingly popular in filmmaking. Films like "Top Gun: Maverick," "Dune," and "The Suicide Squad" utilized these cameras to capture stunning visuals.
2021: Continued Popularity of IMAX Filming
The use of IMAX cameras in film production remained prevalent between 2016 and 2021. Movies such as Zack Snyder's Justice League, Patty Jenkins' Wonder Woman 1984, and Cary Joji Fukunaga's No Time to Die incorporated the technology, showcasing its continued appeal in contemporary cinema.
March 2022: IMAX Announces Development of Next-Generation Film Cameras
In March 2022, IMAX announced a partnership with Kodak, Panavision, and FotoKem to develop new IMAX film cameras, demonstrating a commitment to the future of film despite the rise of digital.
March 2022: IMAX Announces Development of New 15/70 Cameras
In a significant development, IMAX announced in March 2022 its plans to create new 15/70 cameras with input from acclaimed filmmakers such as Jordan Peele and Christopher Nolan. This collaboration with Kodak, Panavision, and FotoKem aimed to further advance IMAX technology.
April 2022: Pixar's "Lightyear" Utilizes Virtual IMAX Camera Technology
In a groundbreaking move for animated films, Pixar's "Lightyear," released in April 2022, employed a virtual IMAX camera during production. This allowed the filmmakers to capture the movie in the IMAX aspect ratio (1.43:1) and create a more immersive experience for viewers.
December 2022: IMAX Certifies Red V-Raptor Camera, Set to Debut with "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3"
December 2022 marked the announcement of IMAX's certification of the Red V-Raptor as a new camera for filmmaking. James Gunn's "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" is slated to become the inaugural film to utilize these cameras, replacing the previously used Red Ranger Monstro.
2022: The Battle at Lake Changjin II Utilizes IMAX-Certified Cameras
Released in 2022, The Battle at Lake Changjin II, a sequel to the 2020 film, was also filmed entirely using IMAX-certified Red Ranger Monstro cameras, further demonstrating the use of high-end IMAX technology in Chinese filmmaking.
2022: Numerous Films Embrace IMAX-Certified Cameras
The year 2022 saw a multitude of films shot using IMAX-certified cameras, including Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Thor: Love and Thunder, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Creed III, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, The Marvels, and Blue Beetle. This highlighted the widespread adoption of IMAX technology in contemporary cinema.
October 2023: World's Third-Largest IMAX Screen Opens in Sydney
As of October 2023, the third-largest IMAX screen globally is located in Sydney, Australia, within The Ribbon building. This screen measures 31.2 by 22.2 meters, reclaiming a title previously held by a screen in Darling Harbour, Sydney, until its demolition in 2016.
2023: IMAX to Introduce New 15/70mm Cameras
IMAX planned to enhance its offerings by introducing at least four new 15/70mm cameras over 2022 and 2023. The first of these advanced cameras is expected to be ready for use by late 2023, marking another significant step in IMAX's technological evolution.
2024: Dune: Part Two Continues the Trend of IMAX-Certified Cameras
Scheduled for release in 2024, Dune: Part Two will continue the trend of being shot with IMAX-certified cameras, specifically the ARRI Alexa LF and Mini LF. This decision reinforces the continued commitment to IMAX technology in high-profile film productions.