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Distinguishing Between "Shot with IMAX" and "Filmed for IMAX" Production Labels
Key points
- "Shot with IMAX" means using IMAX film cameras for at least part of a movie.
- IMAX film cameras use a 15-perf 65mm format for a 1.43:1 image.
- "Filmed for IMAX" is a broader program involving pre-production planning for IMAX presentation.
- "Filmed for IMAX" can use IMAX film cameras or IMAX-certified digital cameras.
- IMAX film production is expensive, requires specialized equipment, and extends production schedules.
- Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" was filmed entirely on IMAX film.
- The first IMAX film, "Tiger Child," was a Japanese short film released in 1970.
- "North of Superior" in 1971 showcased the IMAX format more widely.
- IMAX film cameras are loud due to powerful motors and a vacuum system.
- The vacuum system keeps the film flat during exposure.
- IMAX film cameras move film horizontally at high speed.
Clarifying IMAX Production Terminology
IMAX employs two distinct terms, "Shot with IMAX" and "Filmed for IMAX," which are often confused due to their similar phrasing. While both relate to IMAX productions, they describe different stages and methods of filmmaking. The distinction is important for understanding the technical specifications and intended viewing experience of an IMAX film.
What "Shot with IMAX" Means
The phrase "Shot with IMAX" specifically indicates that at least some portions of a movie were captured using IMAX's large-format film cameras. These cameras utilize a 15-perforation, 65mm film format, where the film runs horizontally, creating a tall 1.43:1 aspect ratio image. This format is distinct from standard film and is often advertised as IMAX 70mm for theatrical prints.
Not all films labeled "Shot with IMAX" use these cameras for their entire runtime. For example, "Oppenheimer" incorporated IMAX film cameras for specific sequences, which then expand to fill the taller IMAX screen in compatible theaters. "The Odyssey" is noted as the first feature film entirely shot with IMAX film cameras, facilitated by new camera enclosure technology.
Understanding "Filmed for IMAX"
"Filmed for IMAX" denotes a more comprehensive production program that begins during pre-production. This program involves filmmakers choosing between IMAX film cameras or IMAX-certified digital cameras, and then optimizing the entire production process for an IMAX presentation. A movie can be "Filmed for IMAX" even if it was shot digitally, as was the case with "Dune."
The "Filmed for IMAX" label signifies a broader commitment to the IMAX viewing experience, encompassing various production decisions beyond just the camera equipment used. "The Odyssey" serves as an example of overlap, being both entirely "Shot with IMAX film cameras" and part of the "Filmed for IMAX" program.
Updates
- IMAX film cameras are loud due to powerful motors and a vacuum system.
- The vacuum system keeps the film flat during exposure.
- IMAX film cameras move film horizontally at high speed.
- IMAX film production is expensive, requires specialized equipment, and extends production schedules.
- Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" was filmed entirely on IMAX film.
- The first IMAX film, "Tiger Child," was a Japanese short film released in 1970.
- "North of Superior" in 1971 showcased the IMAX format more widely.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
IMAX 15/70 film cameras produce significant noise because they move a large amount of film horizontally at high speed, requiring powerful motors and a vacuum system to keep the film flat. This mechanical operation, combined with the camera's size, contributes to the loud whine heard during filming, making them challenging to use despite their high image quality.
Filmmakers infrequently use IMAX for movies due to the high costs, specialized equipment, and operational difficulties associated with the format. These factors contribute to longer production schedules and increased budgets, making IMAX impractical for most film productions.
IMAX uses two distinct labels, "Shot with IMAX" and "Filmed for IMAX," to describe different aspects of film production. "Shot with IMAX" refers to the use of IMAX's large-format film cameras, while "Filmed for IMAX" signifies a broader production process optimized for IMAX presentation, which can include both IMAX film and certified digital cameras. Understanding these labels clarifies how films are produced and presented in IMAX theaters.