2008 Woodie Awards
The IMAX Experience
By Adam Freeland
3/28/07 - Science & Technology
"See More, Hear More, Feel More," a catch phrase that is backed up by some of the latest technology coming together to make the IMAX Experience.
IMAX theaters use a 70mm film that is about ten times the size of the standard theaters 35mm film, allowing the true detail of the film to be seen. Film this big requires some of the most advanced projectors ever built. The bulbs that power them can be up to 15,000 watts. Using projectors that take this large film requires large cameras. The cameras that film on this detailed film can weigh up to 100 lbs and are rugged enough for virtually any filming environment.
All the effort put into the detail of the film would be lost without an equally impressive screen. Some IMAX theaters have screens that approach 80 feet tall. These massive screens are not a flat wall like at a traditional theater, they have a unique curve that comes towards the audience and fills their field of view. With virtually no excess peripheral vision, you get absorbed into the experience.
The Screen's greatest feature is actually hidden out of sight. The main frontal speakers are tucked away behind the screen. The sound literally comes from the immaculate image you see. Coupled with the other clusters at the rear of the theater, this 44-speaker 16-amplifier 12,000-Watt puts you right in the action.
Some IMAX theaters have domed ceilings that reach over the awesome stadium style seating, allowing a reclined viewing. Some films are available in 3D at the IMAX. 300 was recently released, and all those who have had the chance to see this masterpiece at the IMAX were tempted by the previews for Spiderman 3. The special effects of this preview make even non-Spiderman fans want to come back for the premier.
IMAX theaters use a 70mm film that is about ten times the size of the standard theaters 35mm film, allowing the true detail of the film to be seen. Film this big requires some of the most advanced projectors ever built. The bulbs that power them can be up to 15,000 watts. Using projectors that take this large film requires large cameras. The cameras that film on this detailed film can weigh up to 100 lbs and are rugged enough for virtually any filming environment.
All the effort put into the detail of the film would be lost without an equally impressive screen. Some IMAX theaters have screens that approach 80 feet tall. These massive screens are not a flat wall like at a traditional theater, they have a unique curve that comes towards the audience and fills their field of view. With virtually no excess peripheral vision, you get absorbed into the experience.
The Screen's greatest feature is actually hidden out of sight. The main frontal speakers are tucked away behind the screen. The sound literally comes from the immaculate image you see. Coupled with the other clusters at the rear of the theater, this 44-speaker 16-amplifier 12,000-Watt puts you right in the action.
Some IMAX theaters have domed ceilings that reach over the awesome stadium style seating, allowing a reclined viewing. Some films are available in 3D at the IMAX. 300 was recently released, and all those who have had the chance to see this masterpiece at the IMAX were tempted by the previews for Spiderman 3. The special effects of this preview make even non-Spiderman fans want to come back for the premier.
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