Corporate brand
UnclaimedIMAX is a Canadian entertainment-technology company that develops premium large-format cinema systems, image-processing technologies, cameras, and theatrical content services.
Last updated November 4, 2026
AI crawler reads
No AI crawler has read this profile yet.
Overview
IMAX is a Canadian entertainment-technology company whose brand is associated with premium large-format cinema, highly immersive presentation, and filmmaker-oriented production and post-production tools. Rather than operating a conventional cinema chain, IMAX supplies, installs, upgrades, and services specialized theater systems while also participating in the preparation, remastering, production, and distribution of films shown through its network. Its business combines hardware, software, theater design, image and sound processing, content services, and a globally recognized consumer-facing cinema brand. The company originated in the late 1960s among Canadian filmmakers Graeme Ferguson, Roman Kroitor, and Robert Kerr. Their work on multi-screen productions for Expo 67 demonstrated the limitations of conventional projection and encouraged them to develop a system capable of presenting much larger and more detailed images. Engineer William C. Shaw subsequently helped create the projector and film-transport technology that made the format commercially viable. The resulting system used a substantially larger film frame than standard 35-millimeter cinema and incorporated a large screen, powerful sound, and steep stadium-style seating. IMAX's first major presentation was Tiger Child at Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan, in 1970. For much of its early history, IMAX was known primarily for science, nature, educational, and institutional films. The format was installed in museums, science centers, theme parks, and special-purpose venues, where its scale and clarity complemented documentary subjects. The company later expanded into commercial multiplexes and sought closer relationships with Hollywood studios. This transition was supported by the development of IMAX DMR, a digital remastering process that allowed conventionally produced films to be adapted for IMAX presentation, and by the gradual replacement of many film-based systems with digital projection. A major corporate turning point came in 1994, when investment bankers Richard Gelfond and Bradley Wechsler acquired IMAX Corporation through a leveraged buyout. The company became publicly traded in June 1994 and subsequently pursued a strategy centered on expanding the IMAX network, increasing the number of Hollywood event films released in the format, and building long-term commercial relationships with exhibitors and studios. Gelfond became the central figure in the company's modern development, serving in senior leadership roles from 1994 and becoming sole chief executive officer in 2009. IMAX's contemporary platform includes traditional 15/70 film projection, digital IMAX systems, IMAX with Laser, IMAX 3D, IMAX Dome, and proprietary theater configurations. The company also supports filmmakers through certified cameras, production guidance, post-production services, expanded-aspect-ratio presentation, and distribution arrangements. Some films are photographed partly or entirely with IMAX cameras, while others are digitally remastered or specially framed for the format. These approaches allow IMAX releases to offer larger image areas, enhanced brightness and contrast, customized sound, and a presentation designed around the physical characteristics of each auditorium. The company's relationship with Hollywood strengthened markedly through films such as Avatar, which helped make IMAX a mainstream premium format, and through continuing collaborations with directors and studios on large-scale franchise films. IMAX has also expanded its local-language business, particularly in China and other international markets, where domestic blockbusters can account for a significant share of box office. IMAX China Holding was listed in Hong Kong in 2015, reinforcing the importance of the Chinese market to the broader network. IMAX has periodically extended beyond theatrical projection. In 2016 it became a financing and production partner for Marvel Television's Inhumans, an experiment that placed an IMAX presentation of the opening episodes in theaters before the television broadcast. In 2022, IMAX acquired streaming-image-technology company SSIMWAVE, broadening its image-enhancement capabilities toward home entertainment, gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality. As of September 30, 2025, the company reported 1,829 IMAX systems operating in 89 countries and territories, including commercial multiplex locations, commercial destination venues, and institutional sites. In 2025, the network generated a record global box office of approximately $1.28 billion across 122 releases, including a growing slate of local-language films. In 2026, IMAX continued to position itself as a global premium entertainment platform, with major releases such as The Odyssey, Dune: Part Three, and other large-scale studio and international productions supporting network growth. Its strategic identity remains centered on making theatrical films feel like major events through proprietary technology, distinctive presentation, and close collaboration with filmmakers.
History
IMAX developed from a group of Canadian filmmakers' efforts to overcome the limitations of conventional cinema. Graeme Ferguson, Roman Kroitor, and Robert Kerr had worked on multi-screen films associated with Expo 67 in Montreal, including projects that demonstrated how difficult it was to coordinate multiple images and present a large-scale, immersive picture. Their experience led them to seek a new projection system rather than simply enlarging an existing 35-millimeter format. The filmmakers incorporated IMAX Corporation in 1967. William C. Shaw, an engineer who had known Ferguson and Kerr earlier in life, joined the effort in 1968 and became central to the technical development of the system. Shaw's projector used a much larger film frame and a horizontal film-transport path. A vacuum system and specialized registration mechanisms helped move the large film frames accurately through the projector, enabling images with substantially greater area and detail than standard theatrical film. The format was designed as a complete auditorium experience, combining a giant screen with powerful multi-channel sound and steep seating that improved sightlines. The first film produced with the new technology was Tiger Child, presented at Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan, in 1970. The success of the presentation established the basic IMAX proposition: a cinematic image that could surround the audience's field of vision and make subjects such as nature, science, space, and engineering feel immediate. Early installations were concentrated in museums, science centers, theme parks, and other institutional venues. IMAX became particularly associated with educational and documentary films, including productions made in cooperation with museums, government agencies, and scientific organizations. During the 1970s and 1980s, the company refined several specialized formats. IMAX Dome, originally known as OMNIMAX, used a tilted or hemispherical screen to create a planetarium-like presentation. IMAX 3D added stereoscopic depth through paired images and specialized glasses. The company also continued developing cameras and production equipment capable of capturing high-resolution footage suitable for its large screens. William Shaw remained an important technical contributor and continued designing and inventing for the company after his formal retirement until his death in 2002. IMAX's business model changed significantly as the company pursued the commercial multiplex market. The large cost and operational complexity of 15/70 film systems had limited the number of installations, while Hollywood studios initially treated IMAX primarily as a documentary format. The company therefore developed technologies and commercial arrangements that could make the format more flexible. IMAX DMR, or Digital Re-Mastering, allowed films originally made for conventional theatrical distribution to be adapted for IMAX screens. The process could improve image sharpness, sound, contrast, and framing while allowing studios to distribute more titles through the existing IMAX network. In 1994, investment bankers Richard Gelfond and Bradley Wechsler acquired IMAX Corporation through a leveraged buyout. The company became publicly traded in June of that year. Gelfond and Wechsler directed a stronger commercial and Hollywood-oriented strategy, while IMAX engineers and executives worked with studios and filmmakers to make the format compatible with mainstream production schedules. Gelfond served as vice chairman, co-chief executive officer, and co-chairman before becoming sole CEO in 2009. Technical leaders including Brian Bonnick helped develop the systems and workflows that supported the company's expansion beyond documentaries. The 2000s saw growing use of digital technology and the construction of IMAX screens in multiplexes. Digital IMAX systems reduced the cost and logistical demands associated with film projection, allowing more exhibitors to install the brand. IMAX also continued to support 15/70 film for selected productions and maintained a distinctive identity through its screen geometry, auditorium design, sound systems, and presentation standards. The company increasingly positioned itself not merely as a projector supplier but as a premium theatrical platform with a recognizable consumer promise. Avatar, released in 2009, was a major commercial and cultural turning point. Its stereoscopic imagery, large-scale world-building, and event-film status aligned closely with IMAX's strengths. The film helped establish premium large-format cinema as a mainstream part of Hollywood distribution and encouraged studios to release more franchise, science-fiction, superhero, and action films in IMAX. The company subsequently deepened relationships with major studios and with directors who wanted expanded image areas or specialized production tools. China became one of IMAX's most important growth markets. The company signed agreements with major cinema operators, opened additional locations, and expanded the use of local-language films alongside Hollywood releases. IMAX China Holding was listed in Hong Kong in 2015, giving the China business a separate public-market presence while remaining connected to the broader IMAX platform. IMAX also experimented with content financing and new forms of distribution. In 2016, Marvel Television and IMAX announced the live-action series Inhumans, with IMAX acting as a financing partner and the first two episodes receiving an edited theatrical presentation before the television run. The experiment generated significant attention but weak reception and limited theatrical revenue, after which Gelfond said the company would take a more conservative approach to financing content. In September 2022, IMAX acquired SSIMWAVE, a Canadian streaming-technology company. The acquisition expanded IMAX's image-processing capabilities beyond theaters and created a potential technology bridge into streaming, gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality. IMAX continues to operate through two broad activities: Content Solutions, which includes content enhancement and distribution, and Technology Products and Services, which includes the sale, lease, installation, and maintenance of IMAX systems. By September 30, 2025, IMAX reported 1,829 systems in 89 countries and territories. The network included commercial multiplexes, commercial destination venues, and institutional locations. The company reported record 2025 global box office of approximately $1.28 billion and continued to increase the number of local-language and Filmed For IMAX releases. In 2026, the company promoted a slate that included Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, described by IMAX as the first full-length theatrical release filmed entirely with IMAX film cameras. The modern IMAX strategy therefore combines proprietary technology, premium exhibition, filmmaker partnerships, international expansion, and carefully selected extensions into image enhancement and home entertainment.
- 2026
The Odyssey becomes a landmark Filmed For IMAX release
[8]IMAX promoted Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey as the first full-length theatrical film shot entirely with IMAX film cameras.
- 2025
IMAX records its strongest annual box office
[7]IMAX reported approximately $1.28 billion in worldwide 2025 box office and a network of 1,829 systems as of September 30, 2025.
- 2022
IMAX acquires SSIMWAVE
[6]The acquisition expanded IMAX's image-enhancement capabilities into streaming and other screen-based applications.
- 2016
IMAX enters television content financing
[1]IMAX became a financing partner and theatrical presenter for Marvel Television's Inhumans.
- 2015
IMAX China is listed in Hong Kong
[1]IMAX China Holding, Inc. began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under stock code 1970.
- 2012
IMAX opens its first Tianjin location
[1]The company opened its first IMAX location in Tianjin, reflecting the growing importance of China's commercial cinema market.
- 2011
Wanda announces a 75-theater agreement
[1]Wanda Cinema Line announced a 75-theater deal with IMAX, supporting the company's expansion in China.
- 2009
Richard Gelfond becomes sole CEO
[5]Gelfond became the company's sole chief executive officer, continuing IMAX's shift toward Hollywood event films and commercial multiplex expansion.
- 2009
Avatar accelerates mainstream adoption
[1]Avatar became a major driver of IMAX's mainstream Hollywood success and strengthened the premium large-format category.
- 1996
IMAX receives an Academy technical award
[4]Richard Gelfond and Bradley Wechsler accepted an Academy Award for Scientific and Technical Achievement on behalf of IMAX.
Products and positioning
Premium large-format cinema and immersive entertainment-technology provider
Theater technology · 1970
IMAX Cinema Systems
IMAX Cinema Systems combine proprietary projection, image processing, sound, screen, auditorium, and presentation standards. The system is installed through arrangements with cinema exhibitors and can be sold, leased, or provided through revenue-sharing structures. IMAX adapts the system to different venue sizes while maintaining a premium presentation identity.
Laser projection
IMAX with Laser
IMAX with Laser is the company's premium digital projection platform. It uses laser illumination and IMAX image-processing technology to improve brightness, contrast, color reproduction, and perceived detail. In selected auditoriums, the system supports expanded 1.43:1 presentations for films photographed or framed to use a taller image area.
Film projection · 1970
IMAX 70mm Film
IMAX 70mm, commonly associated with the 15/70 format, uses a large horizontal film frame that is substantially larger than the frame used by conventional 35mm cinema. It remains a specialist premium format used for selected filmmaker-led productions and limited theatrical engagements where the physical scale and resolution of film are central to the presentation.
Stereoscopic cinema
IMAX 3D
IMAX 3D presents stereoscopic films through paired images and compatible projection and viewing systems. The format is used for selected event films, animation, science documentaries, and other productions designed to benefit from depth and large-screen immersion.
Dome cinema
IMAX Dome
IMAX Dome, historically associated with the OMNIMAX name, uses a large hemispherical or tilted dome screen. The geometry places the image above and around the audience, making it particularly suitable for museum, science-center, educational, and destination-entertainment venues.
Content remastering
IMAX DMR
IMAX DMR is a proprietary remastering and optimization process used to adapt films for IMAX presentation. It can involve image cleanup, scaling, framing, sound optimization, and other forms of content preparation. The technology helped IMAX expand from documentaries into mainstream Hollywood releases without requiring every film to be produced entirely in the native IMAX format.
Film-production equipment · 1970
IMAX Cameras
IMAX cameras are large-format motion-picture cameras designed to capture images suitable for the company's high-resolution presentation systems. Filmmakers use them selectively or throughout a production depending on the creative and logistical requirements. Their use can enable expanded image areas and distinctive large-format detail in IMAX presentations.
Film-production and distribution program
Filmed For IMAX
Filmed For IMAX identifies films produced, photographed, or specially prepared to take advantage of IMAX presentation. Depending on the title, this may involve IMAX-certified cameras, expanded aspect ratios, specially mastered sound and images, or an exclusive relationship with IMAX theaters. The program strengthens the connection between the brand and filmmaker-led event cinema.
Home-entertainment technology · 2018
IMAX Enhanced
IMAX Enhanced is a consumer technology and certification initiative that extends elements of the IMAX presentation philosophy into compatible home-entertainment devices and content services. It is associated with image, sound, and aspect-ratio specifications intended to preserve selected creative characteristics outside the theater.
Streaming and image technology · 2022
SSIMWAVE Image Enhancement
SSIMWAVE's image-quality and streaming-optimization technologies became part of IMAX's broader technology portfolio after the 2022 acquisition. The capability is intended to support image enhancement and delivery across theatrical, streaming, gaming, virtual-reality, and augmented-reality applications.
Marketing campaigns
- 2026The Odyssey: First Full-Length Film Shot Entirely with IMAX Film Cameras
Global
IMAX positioned The Odyssey as a landmark expression of the company's filmmaker technology, emphasizing that the full-length theatrical production was photographed entirely with IMAX film cameras.
Outcome. The campaign generated strong advance demand and helped drive a major second-half 2026 release narrative for IMAX.
- 2025Sinners in IMAX 70mm and IMAX with Laser
United States · Canada
IMAX promoted Sinners as a format-specific experience, highlighting footage shot with IMAX film cameras and selected presentations using the expanded 1.43:1 image ratio.
Outcome. The campaign emphasized IMAX's continuing relationship with large-format filmmakers and the availability of limited 70mm and laser presentations.
- 2009Avatar in IMAX
United States · Canada · International markets
IMAX promoted Avatar as a major premium large-format event, using the film's stereoscopic imagery and large-scale visual design to demonstrate the commercial potential of IMAX for mainstream Hollywood releases.
Outcome. The release became a major catalyst for IMAX's mainstream Hollywood positioning and encouraged additional studio relationships and event-film releases.
Brand decisions
2026
Maintain operating continuity during CEO medical leaveStrategyBackground
CEO Richard Gelfond took temporary medical leave in March 2026 while receiving treatment for pneumonia.
Action taken
Senior executives coordinated daily operations with Board Chair Darren Throop, and Chief Legal Officer Robert Lister was appointed interim principal executive officer until May 1, 2026. Gelfond then resumed the role and gradually re-engaged in strategic decisions.
Aftermath
IMAX continued its planned operations, reported strong first- and second-quarter 2026 results, and maintained its release and theater-expansion plans.
2022
Acquire SSIMWAVEM&ABackground
IMAX wanted to expand its image-processing and delivery capabilities beyond theatrical venues and into home entertainment and emerging screen technologies.
Action taken
IMAX acquired Canadian streaming-technology company SSIMWAVE in a cash-and-stock transaction.
Aftermath
SSIMWAVE became part of IMAX's technology portfolio, with potential applications in streaming, gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality.
Aggregate purchase price. $23.2 million (2022 acquisition)
2016
Finance and theatrically present Marvel's InhumansOtherBackground
IMAX sought to extend its role from exhibition technology into original and co-produced content.
Action taken
The company became a financing partner for Marvel Television's Inhumans, with the opening episodes receiving an edited theatrical release on IMAX screens before the television broadcast.
Aftermath
The opening episodes received poor critical and audience reception and generated limited theatrical revenue. IMAX subsequently stated that it would take a more conservative approach to investing its own capital in content.
Theatrical box office for the IMAX release. $3.5 million (September 2017 theatrical release)
2015
Create a separately listed China-focused subsidiaryStrategyBackground
China had become one of IMAX's most important international growth markets, with a growing network of commercial multiplex installations.
Action taken
IMAX China Holding, Inc. completed a Hong Kong initial public offering and began trading under stock code 1970.
Aftermath
The listing provided a separate public-market vehicle for the China business while preserving its connection to the wider IMAX platform.
Initial public offering proceeds. $248 million (October 2015 IPO)
2009
Make Hollywood event cinema central to the IMAX platformStrategyBackground
Digital projection, DMR remastering, and stronger studio relationships made it possible to distribute more mainstream films through the IMAX network.
Action taken
Under Richard Gelfond's sole CEO leadership, IMAX emphasized blockbuster films, premium pricing, commercial multiplex installations, and filmmaker partnerships.
Aftermath
Avatar and subsequent franchise releases helped transform IMAX from a niche documentary format into a mainstream premium theatrical brand.
1994
Pursue a commercial and publicly traded growth strategyStrategyBackground
After years focused heavily on institutional, educational, and documentary venues, IMAX was acquired by Richard Gelfond and Bradley Wechsler through a leveraged buyout.
Action taken
The company was reorganized under new ownership and became publicly traded in June 1994, supporting a more aggressive expansion into commercial exhibition and Hollywood relationships.
Aftermath
The change established the corporate and strategic foundation for IMAX's later multiplex expansion and mainstream studio business.
Recent events
IMAX releases a behind-the-scenes feature for Dune[13]
IMAX released a behind-the-scenes feature for Dune, with director Denis Villeneuve and cast discussing the film’s IMAX presentation.
Reported
Hisense J70 Xinghe OLED becomes the first Chinese-brand OLED TV to receive IMAX Enhanced certification[14]
The source reports that Hisense's Xinghe OLED television became the first Chinese-brand OLED TV to receive the IMAX Enhanced certification mark.
Reported
Imax partners with camera makers on large-format production program[15]
Imax partnered with ARRI, Panavision, Red and Sony to create a program intended to open its large-format production to more filmmakers.
Reported
IMAX Enhanced ecosystem expansion announced[16]
IMAX Corporation, DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi, and Sony Pictures Entertainment jointly announced a major expansion of the IMAX Enhanced ecosystem. Sony Pictures Entertainment committed to release hundreds of IMAX-format films over the next two years, including all its new releases that will be shown in IMAX theaters.
Reported
Tribeca Enterprises, IMAX and AT&T partner on summer drive-in movie series[17]
Tribeca Enterprises, IMAX and AT&T announced a partnership to bring the Tribeca Drive-In summer movie series to as many drive-in theaters as possible in the US. The series is scheduled to kick off on June 25.
Reported
IMAX China announces CEO appointment[18]
IMAX China and IMAX Corporation announced that Chen Yuanpeng would become IMAX China's chief executive officer on December 9, 2019; incumbent CEO Chen Jian-de would become vice chairman.
Reported
IMAX reports third-quarter 2019 financial results[19]
IMAX Corporation reported financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2019, including a 5.2% increase in revenue compared with the third quarter of 2018.
Reported
IMAX announces a global IMAX 3D release for Terminator Genisys[20]
IMAX announced that Paramount Pictures' release of Terminator Genisys would be digitally remastered and released in IMAX theatres worldwide starting July 1.
Sources22 sources
- 1IMAX Corporationen.wikipedia.org
- 2IMAX Investor Relations FAQinvestors.imax.com
- 3IMAX Management and Governanceinvestors.imax.com
- 4Richard Gelfond biographyinvestors.imax.com
- 5Richard Gelfond board biographyinvestors.imax.com
- 6IMAX acquires SSIMWAVEimax.com
- 7IMAX 2025 global box-office resultsinvestors.imax.com
- 8IMAX second-quarter 2026 resultsinvestors.imax.com
- 9IMAX 2026 Form 8-K regarding interim principal executive officersec.gov
- 10IMAX 2026 Form 10-Q leadership updatesec.gov
- 11Sinners in IMAX 70mm and IMAX with Laserimax.com
- 12Aggregate purchase priceinvestors.imax.com
- 13IMAX发布《沙丘》幕后特辑ent.enorth.com.cn
- 14海信星河 OLED 电视成为首个获得 IMAX Enhanced 认证标志的中国品牌 OLED 电视finance.sina.com.cn
- 15Imax 与相机制造商合作推出大画幅制作计划hollywoodreporter.com
- 16宣布扩展IMAX Enhanced生态系统finance.sina.com.cn
- 17Tribeca Enterprises、IMAX与AT&T合作推出夏季汽车影院电影系列theverge.com
- 18IMAX China宣布首席执行官任命finance.sina.com.cn
- 19IMAX公布2019年第三季度财务业绩prnewswire.com
- 20IMAX 宣布《魔鬼终结者：创世契机》全球 IMAX 3D 发行comingsoon.net
- 21再添数百新片 索尼深化IMAX Enhanced合作finance.sina.com.cn
- 22IMAX China任命陈远鹏先生为首席执行官finance.sina.com.cn
Cite this profile: Cite the canonical profile. /brand-wiki/imax · Editorial policy · How profiles are compiled