Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala's first IMAX theatre will soon be opened in the state capital, giving film lovers a never-before viewing experience. The theatre is coming up at Taurus-Zentrum Mall, which is part of the Downtown project taken up by Taurus Investment Holdings at Technopark phase III in Kazhakkoottam.
Of the 11 screens at the mall, one will be utilizing IMAX technology. Cinepolis, the world’s fourth largest cinema exhibitor, is bringing IMAX to Thiruvananthapuram and an agreement was signed in this regard recently. IMAX has 1,400 screens around the world.
IMAX offers an unparalleled viewing experience. IMAX is the short form of ‘image maximum’ and as the name suggests, the films will be shown on a huge screen. The technology was developed by IMAX Corporation, a Canadian company. IMAX movies will be shot and displayed on a bigger scale and resolution than ordinary films.
In India, IMAX is setting up nine new screens. With this, the number of IMAX theatres in the country will go up to 40. A major part of IMAX’s revenue is from outside the USA. India ranks fourth in the list.
IMAX films can be made only using a special camera and specialized technology. Moreover, theatres should also be equipped with suitable projectors. IMAX technology has been patented in the USA and cannot be developed by anyone else. Most of the films made utilizing this technology were helmed by leading Hollywood producers. The Dark Knight Rises, Gravity etc. are some examples.
Size of IMAX screens depends on the area of the multiplex. They range from 47 x 24 feet to 74 x 46 feet. They will spread from the floor to the roof and from wall to wall. There will be a slight curve to the screen, enabling all viewers to experience the same visuals. The sound system will be based on laser technology.