As (strong) rumor indicates, the top-notch IMAX filmmaker Christopher Nolan will start shooting his next big project in early 2025, set to be screened on IMAX in Summer 2026. Will he use the new next generation of IMAX film cameras?
Nolan is working on a big project
As reported by Deadline: “Christopher Nolan sets next movie at Universal in IMAX for summer 2026 with Matt Damon as the main star”. Deadline states: “After sweeping the Oscars with his smash hit Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan looks to be returning to the studio that helped him win those Oscars, and he’s bringing one of his A-list stars to lead the ensemble. Sources tell Deadline that Nolan is returning to Universal for his next film, with plans for an IMAX release on July 17, 2026, and that Matt Damon is in talks to star. The date falls in line with several Nolan films that have had similar release dates in the past” Deadline adds that: “As with any Nolan project, plot details are being kept as secret as anything in this town, though sources say the film is expected to shoot in early 2025”. Hence, YMCinema plays the geek’s role and asks if Nolan will shoot this intriguing mega project on the 2nd generation of IMAX film cameras.
We are pretty sure the IMAX CEO, Richard Gelfond, is making a big party now after the news since Nolan is the no. 1 presenter and promoter of the IMAX brand, and trust Rich, here’s going to ride on it.
Shot on Next-Gen IMAX film cameras (!?)
The first question that came to our mind when we heard this great news, is the probability of Nolan utilizing the new next generation of IMAX film cameras. BTW, those cameras were supposed to be fully operational this year, however, all we saw was a drawn prototype at NAB. Thus, we started to assume that this main IMAX project has been delayed, and even forgotten, as there are so many alternatives now for IMAX (certified digital cameras and the power of AI in “exploding images” as explained by the IMAX CEO). Anyway, it seems logical that Nolan will get at least some of these beasts right on his hand when the principal photography is initiated (around yearly 2025 – that is a few months from now). Therefore, just in time for Nolan’s heavy use. Indeed, those new IMAX cameras would become handy especially when shooting Oppenheimer’s dialogues, since they are quieter compared to the mighty MSM 9802. Additionally, the new fleet of IMAX film cameras demonstrates (on paper) a better form factor that Nolan can utilize for his action shots.
IMAX CEO is dancing
We are pretty sure the IMAX CEO, Richard Gelfond, is making a big party now after the news since Nolan is the no. 1 presenter and promoter of the IMAX brand, and trust Rich, here’s going to ride on it. This new Nolan project is going to push the IMAX stock higher and higher. Just a thought — it’s interesting how IMAX depends on one good director. Anyway, we’re eagerly waiting for the first leak of BTS footage showing Nolan, Damon, and the new IMAX film cameras in the background. However, if we see there the MSM 9802 we are going to be disappointed. This is the moment of showing the world these new 15-perforation beasts.
