Why are IMAX cameras so big?

The sideways film transportation of an IMAX format camera means that the frame is much larger: 48.5mm x 69.6mm (HxW). This means that, if shot on the same film stock with the same quality lens, an IMAX frame will have much finer grain and better resolution of subject detail than a movie shot on 35mm film.

How much do IMAX cameras weigh?

The IMAX 3D camera weighs over 113 kg (249 lb). By projecting the two films superimposed on the screen and using one of several available methods to direct only the correct image to each eye, viewers see a 3D image on a 2D screen.

How much does an IMAX film cost?

An IMAX documentary costs about $12,000 to print. A feature film can cost three times that. A 35 mm film print at a traditional theater costs about $1,000.

What makes IMAX so special?

Unparalleled brightness and brilliant clarity. Clarity, detail and size make IMAX more than a movie. Our remastering — or DMR — process fully transforms every frame of a film to produce the best possible version of a filmmaker’s vision.

How does an IMAX projector work?

Therefore, an IMAX projector is completely different from a normal projector: The film moves through it horizontally rather than vertically. A vacuum system sucks each image onto a piece of glass in front of the lens so that the image is oriented perfectly in front of the lens.

Does IMAX still use film?

Most regular theaters and IMAX theaters project films in a digital format. Essentially analog in post-production is DEAD. Films shot in 35mm, 70mm or IMAX are transfered to a digital format and that is where ALL of the post production takes place.

What is the IMAX system?

The IMAX system has its’ roots in Montreal’s EXPO 1967, where multi-screen films were the hit of the fair.

How does the IMAX cinema process increase the image resolution?

The IMAX cinema process increases the image resolution by using a larger film frame; in relative terms, a frame of IMAX format film has three times the theoretical horizontal resolution of a frame of 35mm film.

What was the first movie to be shot with IMAX cameras?

The Dark Knight was also the first mainstream film to be partially shot with 70mm IMAX cameras, with other films doing the same afterward. 2008 saw the release of a new digital IMAX projector system that allowed films to be easily shown in more common multiplexes, albeit within their own custom made auditoriums.

What are the different IMAX projection formats?

There are three different IMAX projection formats – the original IMAX 15-perforation, 70mm film system, IMAX Digital, and IMAX with Laser. IMAX Digital uses 2K projection (2,048 x 1,080) and IMAX with Laser uses 4K projection (4,096 x 2,160). Film, being a chemical process and not digital, does not technically have a pixel resolution.