IMAX movies are a format that is known for its large screen size and high-quality audio and visual effects.
IMAX 2D refers to the traditional 2D format, which involves showing a movie on a large screen with two-dimensional images and no added visual effects.
IMAX 3D, on the other hand, involves showing a movie on a large screen with three-dimensional images and added visual effects, such as depth and the illusion of objects coming out of the screen.
Is IMAX 3D?
Not all IMAX movies playing are 3D however the vast majority are.
While many people associate IMAX with 3D movies, the company has a long history of showing both 2D and 3D movies. In fact, IMAX began as a 2D movie format in the 1970s, and it wasn’t until the mid-2000s that the company started showing 3D movies on a widespread basis.
When you purchase the tickets the theater operator will alert you to if the movie is playing in 2D or 3D as well as if you need to purchase 3D glasses or if they are provided complementary with the movie ticket.
What is the difference between IMAX 3D and IMAX 2D?
The main difference between IMAX 2D and 3D is the way they are presented to the viewer. IMAX 2D movies are traditional movies that are shown on a flat screen and IMAX 3D use special glasses with one red lens and one blue lens to create the illusion of three-dimensional depth.
In addition to the difference in presentation, there are also some technical differences between IMAX 2D and 3D movies. IMAX 2D movies are shot using IMAX cameras, which capture a wider field of view and more detail than traditional cameras. The movies are then transferred to film and projected onto large, curved screens using powerful IMAX projectors. This provides a more immersive and high-quality viewing experience for 2D movies.
IMAX 3D movies are also shot using IMAX cameras and are transferred to film, but they are projected onto the screen using slightly different technology. In addition to the use of 3D glasses, IMAX 3D movies use a system of polarized filters and projectors to create the illusion of three-dimensional depth.
You do not need the glasses to view IMAX 2D movies.
IMAX 3D Glasses
To view an IMAX 3D movie, you will need to wear 3D glasses, which use polarization technology to create the illusion of three-dimensional depth. The glasses have one red lens and one blue lens, which help to create the 3D effect by separating the left and right images that are projected onto the screen.
These glasses are specialized for IMAX, and not the same as RealD 3D or other 3D glasses.
Real 3D uses linear polarization while Imax Digital 3D uses circular polarizing in the generation of pictures. The projectors used in achieving the picture qualities of the two are dual projectors for the IMAX digital 3 D and a single projector for the RealD 3D.
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