Imax theater giant screen

IMAX theaters provide an immersive cinematic experience with giant screens and high-definition sound, transforming how we watch movies.

About this subject

IMAX (Image Maximum) is a large-format film projection system created in Canada in 1970 by Graeme Ferguson, Roman Kroitor, and Robert Kerr. Early IMAX screens measured 15 meters high by 20 meters wide, but today they can exceed 30 meters. The technology uses 70 mm projectors with horizontal film roll, delivering an image ten times larger than conventional cinema.

IMAX theaters gained widespread popularity in the 2000s, especially with Hollywood blockbusters. In 2010, 'Avatar' boosted adoption of IMAX 3D. Brazil currently has over 60 IMAX screens, located in shopping malls in major cities such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. The proprietary sound system, with strategically placed speakers, creates a three-dimensional auditory experience.

A fun fact: the world's largest IMAX screen is in Melbourne, Australia, measuring 32 meters wide. The evolution to IMAX with Laser, launched in 2014, offers superior contrast and color. Besides feature films, IMAX theaters also show educational documentaries, especially on nature and space exploration, leveraging the immersive format to engage audiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between IMAX and regular cinema?

The IMAX screen is much larger (up to 30 meters wide) and uses 70 mm film projection, providing sharper and more detailed images. The sound is more powerful and calibrated to immerse the viewer.

Where are IMAX theaters located in Brazil?

IMAX theaters in Brazil are mostly in shopping malls in major cities like São Paulo (Shopping Cidade Jardim, JK Iguatemi), Rio de Janeiro (Barra Shopping), and Brasília (Taguatinga Shopping). There are also theaters in Campinas, Porto Alegre, and Salvador.

Are IMAX movies different from regular movies?

Yes, many movies are shot with IMAX cameras or converted to the format. The aspect ratio may vary: in IMAX scenes, the image fills the entire screen, while in regular scenes there are black bars.