Panavision presents its DXL2 IMAX cinema camera. Well, it’s not a new camera per se, but more a certification by IMAX, which means the DXL2 is now an approved capture system for the IMAX origination as part of the “Filmed in IMAX” program.

Panavision DXL2 IMAX

The Panavision DXL2 IMAX is not a new camera. The IMAX badge symbolizes an approved capture system for the huge canvas as a part of the “Filmed in IMAX” program. Don’t be confused with the ALEXA 65 IMAX which is a customized version of the ARRI ALEXA 65 camera that resulted from an engineering partnership between IMAX and ARRI Rental. There are no customization or camera modifications here. The Panavision DXL2 stays the same. However, the IMAX certification of the DXL2 indicates that the camera is being welcomed to the “Filmed in IMAX” program. The program specifies certain workflows and methods to meet the demands of the IMAX technology and mastering process for the global theatrical platform.

“Filmed in IMAX”: Top cinema cameras approved

Through the program, IMAX certifies high-end, best-in-class digital cameras, including Panavision’s Millennium DXL2, to work in the IMAX format when paired with IMAX’s proprietary mastering process. Additionally, the program certifies camera rental houses, including Panavision, that can supply certified cameras worldwide. Furthermore, the new program certifies the ARRI ALEXA LF and MINI LF, RED RANGER MONSTRO, and Sony’s VENICE cameras along with the ARRI ALEXA 65 IMAX. Panavision’s DXL2 8K camera is equipped with the RED Monstro sensor (40.96mm x 21.60mm) that offers 16bits of color across 35 million pixels at up to 60 frames per second, and it’s considered one of the best digital solutions in high-end productions. By the way, it seems that “Filmed in IMAX” accepts and approves only digital cameras. Panavision has its own 65 film camera that can deliver outstanding imagery to be screened on IMAX theater, however, it’s not considered being part of the “Filmed in IMAX” program.

What does it mean to Panavision?

Think of it as a prestigious stamp. Panavision will work with IMAX across R&D, production testing, and post-production to achieve the highest level of digital image capture for optimized playback on IMAX’s proprietary projection systems. The first implementations of the “Filmed in IMAX” program are ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and ‘Dune’ which were shot on Sony VENICE, ALEXA LF, and Mini LF. Curious to see what movies will be shot on the “Panavision Millennium DXL2 IMAX”.