Imax and Wanda Film, China’s largest exhibitor, have recently announced a significant expansion of their longstanding strategic partnership in the country. This expansion encompasses various aspects including technology upgrades and content collaborations. The agreement includes plans for Wanda Film to upgrade 61 of its top-performing locations to state-of-the-art Imax with Laser technology in key cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Moreover, Wanda Film will also renew up to 37 existing Imax locations over the next five years and potentially add up to 25 new Imax locations within the next three years.
Advanced Technology and Content Collaborations
Imax with Laser is considered the company’s most advanced experience in terms of image quality and precision audio. This new technology aims to enhance the overall moviegoing experience for viewers. Additionally, Imax will collaborate with Wanda Pictures, the conglomerate’s production and distribution arm, to explore various content opportunities across documentaries, music, gaming, and sports. The partnership has already seen success with the release of hit films like Detective Chinatown 3 in 2021.
Wanda Film Chair, Chen Zhixi, emphasized the company’s commitment to elevating moviegoers’ viewing experience through the adoption of premium projection technology. He stated, “Alongside our joint efforts in upgrading the moviegoing experience, we will work with Imax to enhance projection standards for a wide range of films, allowing even more moviegoers to enjoy the immersive experience in theaters.” This focus on enhancing the overall cinematic experience for audiences is crucial for both companies.
Imax CEO Rich Gelfond highlighted the significance of the partnership with Wanda Film in strengthening Imax’s position in China’s largest circuit. He mentioned, “By securing a renewed commitment from China’s largest exhibitor, Imax solidifies its position as the dominant platform for immersive cinematic entertainment in China.” This strategic partnership is expected to open up new opportunities for collaboration in blockbuster films, documentaries, and events across various genres.
The partnership between Wanda Film and Imax is expected to lead to further collaborations in the future. IMAX China CEO, Daniel Manwaring, expressed gratitude for Wanda Film’s recommitment to Imax across its top-performing locations. He mentioned, “We believe the strategic partnership between Ruyi and Tencent can open new doors for Wanda Film and IMAX to collaborate across blockbuster films as well as documentaries and events in music, gaming, and sports.” This collaborative approach is crucial for driving growth and innovation in the entertainment industry.
The strategic partnership between Imax and Wanda Film represents a significant step towards enhancing the moviegoing experience for audiences in China. With a focus on advanced technology, quality content, and strategic collaborations, both companies are poised to strengthen their position in the market and provide viewers with immersive and engaging cinematic experiences. This expansion marks a new chapter in the long-standing partnership between Imax and Wanda Film, promising exciting developments in the years to come.