The outlook for IMAX stock appears to be on an upward trajectory. This year has been significant for the premium theater format, especially with the recent release of Sinners, which was filmed using IMAX cameras. Director Ryan Coogler aimed to maximize the cinematic experience, leading to a substantial buzz around the film’s IMAX format. The excitement surrounding Sinners was so substantial that it was re-released in IMAX theaters earlier this summer following a successful initial run. Other notable films that successfully leveraged the IMAX format this year include Superman, Thunderbolts, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, and F1.
According to a report by Deadline, the company has experienced a remarkable increase in profits and revenue in the last quarter, surpassing Wall Street expectations. The global box office rose by 19% year-on-year, marking the company’s highest-grossing domestic quarter ever at an impressive $143 million. With 400 IMAX screens nationwide, the format contributed approximately 10% of the domestic opening for seven consecutive films formatted in IMAX this summer, achieving a 20% share for Sinners, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, and F1: The Movie. CEO Rich Gelfond stated that what was once considered the high end of their performance on major releases is now the standard.
In a show of celebration, Gelfond announced that F1 will see a special re-release on the IMAX format on August 8, giving audiences another chance to experience this thrilling film.
Our reviewer, Chris Bumbray, praised the movie’s presentation on the premium screen and highly recommended it to audiences. He remarked, “I’d say yes—because like Top Gun: Maverick, they went all out to make F1 as realistic as possible. The movie was conceived, shot, and executed with direct involvement from the F1 world. They used Formula 2 cars modified to resemble F1 cars, and races were filmed at actual F1 events—including Silverstone, Hungaroring, Spa, and Monza—during off-hours and race weekends. Real F1 drivers also participated, ensuring that the film is grounded in authenticity.
There’s no fake CG driving in this film. The only CGI utilized was for minor adjustments like weather effects, adding virtual extras, or achieving seamless camera transitions. Every bump, gear shift, and G-force reaction is clearly visible in the actors’ or stunt drivers’ performances—not simulated with green screen. This realism is something that must be experienced on an IMAX screen to truly appreciate.
However, it is important to note that the movie wasn’t filmed on IMAX 65mm film like some scenes in Sinners or typical Christopher Nolan films. Instead, it was captured using IMAX-certified digital cameras and custom racing rigs. This distinction is crucial because this film isn’t just another one that gets an IMAX release without a significant visual upgrade compared to a standard screen.
