November 2, 2015—IMAX is pleased to announce that Parc du Futuroscope in Poitiers, France, will install IMAX’s next-generation digital laser projection system at its Kinemax IMAX® theatre to replace the IMAX film-based projection system at that location. The agreement marks the first IMAX laser system signing in France.

Futuroscope is France’s first amusement park, which opened in 1987 along with the Kinemax IMAX theatre—one of the first IMAX theatres in the country. The park remains one of the nation’s most popular family destinations, hosting over 1.8 million guests annually and delivering an experience that balances both fun and discovery through its many diverse attractions. In 2012, Futuroscope hosted the combined Euromax/Giant Screen Cinema Association Film Expo. 

IMAX with laser represents a quantum leap forward in cinema technology—providing audiences with the sharpest, brightest, clearest and most vivid digital images ever, combined with a whole new level of immersive audio. The technology will enable Futuroscope to deliver the full array of the highest-quality IMAX digital content available. This content will not only further enhance The IMAX Experience® for Kinemax patrons it will also offer the park a competitive advantage that can serve as a catalyst for future growth.

“Since our inception, IMAX has always played a key part in our commitment to deliver a world-class entertainment experience that educates and stimulates the imagination of our guests,” said Dominique Hummel, Chairman of the Board, Parc du Futuroscope. “We have invested a tremendous amount of time researching the many digital systems and we are confident that IMAX with laser delivers the most immersive, differentiated cinema experience available.”

Designed from the ground up for IMAX's largest screens, the dual 4K laser projection system is equipped with a new optical engine and suite of proprietary IMAX technologies capable of projecting an image with up to a 1.43:1 aspect ratio with maximum resolution and sharpness, unparalleled 2D and 3D brightness, industry-leading contrast and an expanded color gamut that will allow filmmakers to present more vivid and exotic colors than ever before.

The new system also includes IMAX's next-generation sound technology that delivers even greater power and precision for ultimate audio immersion. It has been upgraded to 12 discrete channels plus sub-bass, and includes additional side channels as well as new overhead channels that will improve the system's ability to position sounds around the audience and further ensure every seat is the best in the house.

“With our next-generation laser system, we continue to redefine the landscape of projection technology,” said Andrew Cripps, President, IMAX EMEA. “We are pleased to build on our successful relationship with Futuroscope, one of our first partners in France, and together look forward to delivering the future of immersive cinematic experiences to movie-goers in the country.”

IMAX has signed laser system deals with some of the world’s most iconic venues including the Smithsonian’s 3 IMAX theatres, (Washington, DC and Chantilly, VA), Pacific Science Center’s Boeing® IMAX Theatre (Seattle), Tennessee Aquarium’s IMAX Theater (Chattanooga), Museum of Discovery and Science’s AutoNation IMAX® Theatre (Fort Lauderdale) and the LG® IMAX Theatre at Darling Harbor (Sydney).

 

For more information on IMAX with laser, please visit:

https://www.imax.com/lasernews

 

Source: IMAX Corporation