Great news for 65mm enthusiasts. IMAX has announced the development of four(!) new film cameras. The first prototype is being tested as we speak and will debut in 2023. The cameras are being developed with a partnership of Kodak, Panavision, and FotoKem, and based on insights from filmmakers Christopher Nolan and Jordan Peele. The cameras will incorporate new features and improvements. All details are below.

IMAX’s new cameras

IMAX has started to develop a new lineup of 65mm cameras in cooperation with Kodak, Panavision, and FotoKem. A new press release reported by Variety, states that IMAX plans to deploy at least four new cameras over the next two years hence growing its existing lineup by 50%, with plans to put the first new camera into use by late 2023. “As Imax grows as a global platform for entertainment and events, we want to offer more filmmakers, storytellers, and artists the opportunity to create with our unrivaled end-to-end technology,” said Megan Colligan, president of IMAX Entertainment. “From our connected global network to IMAX Enhanced for the home, the IMAX Experience provides a more expansive creative canvas than ever, and these new film cameras will enable a new generation of creators along with those who already love working with the cameras a better way to unlock the power of IMAX.”

As Imax grows as a global platform for entertainment and events, we want to offer more filmmakers, storytellers and artists the opportunity to create with our unrivaled end-to-end technology.

Megan Colligan, president of IMAX Entertainment

Cristopher Nolan is called for the mission

IMAX says that it is working with filmmakers such as Jordan Peele and Christopher Nolan to identify new features for the prototype development phase, which is already underway. Peele’s next nightmarish film “Nope” (hitting screens on July 22, 2022), and Christopher Nolan’s upcoming war “Oppenheimer” (on track for 2023) were shot using the current generation of IMAX film cameras and Kodak 65mm film. Make sure to read our article: Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ Is The First to be Shot on B&W IMAX, which elaborates on a new process of transforming 65mm IMAX to a pure black & white. “IMAX film brings images to life,” Nolan said in a statement. “From resolution and color to sharpness and overall quality, there is nothing compared to using IMAX film cameras today. Filmmakers and movie fans worldwide should be thrilled at the prospect of new and improved IMAX film cameras — I know I am.” Peele added, “IMAX is movie magic pushed to its limit. When you see a film in an IMAX theater, it feels like you are there. It’s complete immersion, and there’s nothing quite like it. And we are only at the beginning, there’s still so much to be explored in this format.”

New features: Noise reduction and improved usability

New features for IMAX technology will include a quieter design and a number of usability enhancements. IMAX’s existing cameras and lenses will also get major upgrades as part of the program. That features were heavily demanded by filmmakers that are eager to use IMAX but are intimidated by the camera’s disadvantages which are: Usability and noise. To understand more about IMAX cameras, head to our article: IMAX Filmmaking: What is it like to Shoot on an IMAX Film Camera?

Kodak will offer enhanced technical support and manufacturing of the 65mm film stock. Panavision will provide a global network of enhanced service and maintenance for IMAX camera productions worldwide along with new tools for the cameras and technical support for the cameras.

Kodak, Panavision, and FotoKem are in the loop

According to the press release: “Kodak will offer enhanced technical support and manufacturing of the 65mm film stock. Panavision will provide a global network of enhanced service and maintenance for IMAX camera productions worldwide along with new tools for the cameras and technical support for the cameras. FotoKem will work alongside the IMAX camera and post-production departments to improve production workflows and coordinate lab and post services.” That’s a piece of great news to Kodak as well, as it allows it to grow its marvelous 65mm stock. 

New features for IMAX technology will include a quieter design and a number of usability enhancements.

Closing thoughts

In 2022, there will be at least 10 movies shot on IMAX. It might not sound as many but be reminded that IMAX has limited resources regarding its cameras. Indeed, the “Filmed in IMAX” program helps to facilitate the shooting to the huge canvas, however, it’s not like shooting on a pure 65mm film. Hence, the expansion of the cameras offered by IMAX is more than welcome. Curious to explore the first production model, and what it’s capable of.