The recent teaser trailer for the upcoming Superman film has ignited online discussions, primarily focusing on its stylistic departure from Zack Snyder’s darker portrayal. However, a less discussed but equally intriguing aspect is the “Filmed For IMAX” tagline, a declaration that has generated some understandable confusion amongst moviegoers. While many might interpret this as implying the use of traditional IMAX 70mm film cameras, as employed by filmmakers like Christopher Nolan and Jordan Peele, the reality is more nuanced. IMAX branding encompasses a broader spectrum of filmmaking techniques, leading to potential misinterpretations of what the “IMAX experience” truly entails.
The “Filmed For IMAX” designation doesn’t necessarily equate to the utilization of 70mm film. IMAX employs three distinct classifications for its branding. Firstly, there’s the true “gold standard,” referring to films captured entirely or partially on IMAX 70mm film cameras. This method, favored by Christopher Nolan, delivers unparalleled image quality and a unique 1.43:1 aspect ratio, maximizing the immersive potential of IMAX screens. Secondly, there’s the category of “IMAX certified” digital cameras. These cameras, while not utilizing film, meet IMAX’s stringent standards for resolution and image quality, offering the possibility of 1.43:1 sequences. “Dune,” “Eternals,” and “The Lion King” exemplify this digital IMAX approach. Finally, there’s the IMAX Digital Media Remastering (DMR) process, which enhances films shot on standard digital or film formats for optimal presentation on IMAX screens. This process, often overseen by the original director, ensures a high-quality viewing experience even for films not originally captured with IMAX technology.
The upcoming Superman film falls into the second category. Director James Gunn confirmed that the movie was shot entirely on the IMAX-certified RED V-Raptor, an 8K digital camera. While this technically qualifies for the “Filmed For IMAX” label, it differs significantly from the 70mm film experience. Gunn’s comment, “The whole movie is shot in IMAX,” while technically accurate within IMAX’s branding framework, contributes to the public’s confusion regarding the varying levels of IMAX filmmaking. This highlights a broader issue with IMAX marketing, where the nuances of its classifications are often lost on the general audience, and even, as this case illustrates, on filmmakers themselves.
The lack of clarity surrounding the aspect ratio further complicates the matter. Whether the film will feature sequences in the expansive 1.43:1 IMAX aspect ratio or stick to a more standard 1.90:1 remains to be seen. This ambiguity underscores the need for clearer communication from IMAX regarding its different formats, so audiences can accurately understand what visual experience to expect. The “Filmed For IMAX” tagline, while technically correct in this instance, doesn’t fully convey the technological distinction between 70mm film capture and digitally certified cameras.
Beyond the technicalities of IMAX filming, the new Superman trailer has generated considerable excitement, promising a fresh take on the character after Zack Snyder’s divisive interpretation. While Henry Cavill’s portrayal, complemented by Hans Zimmer’s score and a striking suit, offered memorable moments, the overall execution left some viewers wanting. This new iteration appears to draw heavily from the character’s comic book roots, though the introduction of Superdog might not resonate with all fans. Furthermore, the inclusion of a multitude of characters, including Lex Luthor (played by Nicholas Hoult), Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mr. Terrific, Metamorpho, and Hawkgirl, raises concerns about potential narrative overcrowding.
Despite these reservations, the casting of Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, following her acclaimed performance in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” adds a significant draw. Her presence, coupled with the promise of a visually compelling experience, albeit digitally captured IMAX, makes the upcoming Superman film a highly anticipated release. While the “Filmed For IMAX” tagline might require further clarification within the broader context of IMAX branding, it undeniably adds to the allure, promising a large-format spectacle, even if it isn’t the “gold standard” of 70mm film. The film’s ultimate success will depend on its narrative execution and character development, but the initial buzz suggests a promising return for the Man of Steel.
