Do you mean the IMAX theater format, the company, or what’s playing near you? Here’s a quick primer you can use right away—then tell me which direction you want to go.
IMAX, in a nutshell
IMAX is a large‑format cinema system: very big, very bright screens; high‑resolution projection; and a proprietary remastering process (IMAX DMR) that sharpens and optimizes the movie for those screens. Many blockbusters also include IMAX‑exclusive aspect ratios (often 1.90:1 vs. the usual 2.39:1), so you literally see more picture in IMAX.
The main types of IMAX auditoriums
| Type | What it means | What you’ll notice |
| 15/70 Film IMAX (a.k.a. “70mm IMAX”) | Projects 70mm film with 15 perforations per frame on tall 1.43:1 screens (the classic “giant screen”). | The largest, towering image; visible film texture; limited, special engagements. |
| IMAX with Laser (GT / “Grand Theatre”) | Dual 4K laser projectors on 1.43:1 or very tall screens. | Extreme brightness and contrast, razor clarity, 12‑channel immersive sound. Often the best digital IMAX experience. |
| IMAX with Laser (Multiplex) | Dual 4K laser projectors on 1.90:1 screens in many modern multiplexes. | Bright, sharp image; expanded 1.90 scenes; upgraded 12‑channel audio. |
| Legacy IMAX Digital (Xenon) | Older dual‑projector 2K systems on 1.90:1 screens. | Still big and loud, but typically dimmer/softer vs. Laser; many sites have upgraded. |
Tip: Theater listings often specify “IMAX 70mm,” “IMAX with Laser,” or just “IMAX.” If you’re choosing for a big release, look for “IMAX 70mm” or “IMAX with Laser (GT)” when available.
When is IMAX “worth it”?
- Movies shot (or partially shot) with IMAX‑certified cameras or finished for IMAX usually offer expanded scenes and finer detail that standard screens won’t show.
- Large‑scale visuals (space, nature docs, aerials, practical effects) benefit the most from the height and clarity.
- If your local IMAX is Laser or 70mm, it’s generally a strong upgrade over standard/Dolby depending on the title and mix.
Best seats
- Aim for centered horizontally and about ⅔ back from the screen (roughly 1.0–1.5 screen heights away).
- On very tall 1.43 screens, one or two rows farther back than you’d pick for a standard screen helps you take in the full height comfortably.
IMAX at home (quick note)
“IMAX Enhanced” on certain TVs/AVRs and streaming titles (e.g., select Marvel on Disney+) mainly means IMAX 1.90:1 framing and DTS audio options on supported gear. It’s a home‑media certification, not the same as a theater’s 1.43 “giant screen.”
What would you like next?
- 🎬 Showtimes near me (tell me your city/ZIP and the film)
- 🏟️ Which local IMAX is best (I’ll compare your nearby Laser/70mm screens)
- 🔧 IMAX vs. Dolby Cinema (which to pick for a specific movie)
- 📈 IMAX the company / stock (NYSE: IMAX) overview
- 🎥 Is this movie actually “shot for IMAX”? (I’ll check the cameras/aspect)
Tell me what you’re after, and I’ll jump straight to it.