What Makes IMAX So Expensive? | WSJ Tech Behind

Modernized Large‑Format Film Camera That Competes With Digital IMAX’s 65mm, 15‑perforation format delivers roughly 18K detail and distinctive color and texture from film emulsion, far beyond standard 35mm and many 4K digital cameras. Traditional IMAX film cameras are loud, heavy, and complex, with 1,000‑foot loads that last only three minutes, and a nine‑camera fleet that relies on scarce parts and specialists. Building on the success of film‑shot epics like The Dark Knight and Oppenheimer, IMAX is developing an all‑new 15‑perf film camera built from carbon‑fiber and honeycomb panels with titanium, new optics, a five‑inch color display, and wireless connectivity. The design preserves 18K analog capture while aiming to compete with modern digital systems on set.

Prism‑Free Laser Projection and Calibrated Theaters for Deep Immersion To match its film standard in the digital era, IMAX replaced prism‑based projectors—whose split light and scattering reduce contrast—with a custom system that uses three color lasers and no prisms. Micron‑level alignment of modulators and optics achieves higher brightness and contrast than conventional digital projection. A remastering pipeline enhances visuals and sound so movies hold up on giant screens. Iconic theaters use steep stadium seating, up to 12 localized speakers, a taller aspect ratio, and curved, perforated screens coated in proprietary silver paint for uniform brightness from every seat. Networked operations centers monitor and calibrate every auditorium daily, fixing most issues remotely to keep the experience consistently immersive.