The 2024Cannes Film Festivalis currently underway in France showcasingsome of the biggest films nearing releaseand the buzziest new projects coming in the next few years. As the event looks forward to the future of cinema,IMAXused the platform to unveil the 2025 Filmed for IMAX slate, a selection of at least 14 major films that were shot with IMAX film or utilized IMAX-certified digital cameras. Along with it, however, the company unveiled its new tools of the trade that will come into play in many new films to come — next-generation cameras that look to push the premium format to new heights on the big screen.
IMAX is preparing to roll out four 15/65mm film cameras which could begin beta testing with early prototypes in August. These modernized models will boast higher image quality than ever before, along with a 30% reduction in noise and other new features and functionality that will translate to crisp footage on the big screen. Currently, nine 15/65mm IMAX cameras exist within the company’s fleet, but the new models will greatly bolster numbers in circulation within the industry. To improve on what’s already being used, IMAX turned to filmmakers likeChristopher Nolan,Jordan Peele, andHoyte van Hoytemafor feedback on what could be tweaked to make IMAX cameras even better than before. Production is expected to begin on the new cameras by the end of 2024.
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Part of the need for more powerful cameras is due to recent smash hits in IMAX.OppenheimerandDune: Part Twohave particularly crushed it at the IMAX box office of late, placing as the fifth and seventh highest-grossing films in that format and accounting for 20% and 21% of their global totals through IMAX alone while enjoying lengthy runs on its screens. As a whole, the company is pulling in a greater share of film revenue than ever before despite only accounting for less than 1% of movie screens worldwide. IMAX CEORich Gelfondexpressed how theincrease in use of the premium formatand constant improvements to technology will be a big win for consumers looking to get the most out of their movie theater experience:
“As more of the world’s best filmmakers create specifically for our platform, IMAX is becoming as much about excellence in production as it is presentation of the biggest blockbuster filmmaking. Quite simply, audiences get that if you see a movie Filmed for IMAX in IMAX, you’re getting the best, most immersive cinematic experience money can buy, which is why we’re driving a huge share of the global box office on these titles.”
What Future Films Will Be Making Use of IMAX?
While it may be some time before these new cameras make their presence known in the industry, the future of IMAX is bright with a record number of films coming in 2025 embracing the format. Leading the Filmed for IMAX slate is the long-awaitedCaptain America: Brave New World, Sam Wilson’s (Anthony Mackie) intense first solo title on the big screen that arrives in February. It’s one of four MCU outings coming next year that’s shooting for success on the biggest and brightest screens possible, withThunderboltsbowing on May 2, followed byThe Fantastic Fouron July 25, andBladeon November 7. DC is also bound for IMAX, withJames Gunn’sSupermanshot entirely in the format. This year,Todd Phillips’sJoker: Folie à Deuxwill also make the most of IMAX, being entirely shot in the format and preparing for a limited theatrical run in 70mm film.Brad Pitt’s Formula One movieandMission: Impossible 8are also set to premiere in the premium format next year.
Stay tuned here at Collider formore coverage from the Cannes Film Festival. Get a look at the new IMAX camera models in the gallery above.
Joker: Folie a Deux
Joker: Folie à Deux explores Arthur Fleck’s ongoing struggle with his dual identity as he unexpectedly discovers love and unleashes his hidden musical talent. Set against a backdrop of societal unrest, Arthur’s journey intertwines personal transformation with chaotic encounters, leading to profound shifts in his life and the world around him.
