"Sinners" Returns to IMAX 70mm: A Cinematic Triumph Revisited

Ryan Coogler’s genre-bending film, "Sinners," is making a triumphant return to select IMAX theaters across the country in its stunning 70mm format, starting May 15th. This highly anticipated revival follows a wildly successful initial run and caters to fervent audience demand for the unparalleled cinematic experience that only IMAX 70mm can provide. IMAX Corporation announced the return on May 1st, igniting excitement among cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike.

"Sinners," a period action horror film starring Michael B. Jordan, captivated audiences with its unique blend of genres and compelling narrative. Set against the backdrop of a small Mississippi town, the story follows twin brothers who return home and establish a juke joint, only to find it infested with vampires. The film’s intricate plot, coupled with its striking visuals and powerful performances, contributed to its meteoric rise as a box office sensation.

The film’s success is due, in part, to Coogler’s decision to shoot "Sinners" using IMAX film cameras. These cameras are renowned for their exceptional high resolution, capturing an astonishing level of detail and clarity. The resulting visual feast is particularly impactful when projected in IMAX 70mm, a format that offers a truly immersive and captivating moviegoing experience.

However, the ability to screen "Sinners" in IMAX 70mm is limited to a select number of theaters across the nation. These venues possess the specialized equipment and technical expertise required to handle and project the large-format film, making the experience all the more exclusive and sought-after.

Coogler’s passion for the IMAX 70mm format dates back to his time in film school, where he developed a deep appreciation for its unique visual qualities and immersive capabilities. It was a conversation with Warner Bros. executive Jesse Ehrman that ultimately solidified his decision to utilize the large IMAX film for "Sinners." Ehrman recognized the potential of the format to elevate the film’s visual impact and create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Coogler emphasized the importance of formats like IMAX in an era dominated by streaming services and mobile devices. He noted that IMAX offers an experience that can only be had in theaters, providing a welcome contrast to the increasingly ubiquitous nature of digital media consumption.

"Sinners" has been a resounding box office success since its initial release on April 18th. According to reports from Variety and Deadline, the film has grossed over $200 million in North America, solidifying its status as a major commercial and critical triumph. The film’s popularity is a testament to its quality, the strength of its cast and crew, and the power of the IMAX 70mm experience to draw audiences to theaters.

The benefits of viewing films in 70mm are well-documented. As the U.K. Science and Media Museum noted during the release of Christopher Nolan’s "Oppenheimer," which was also presented in 70mm, the format offers greater detail, color, and depth than most other modern movies. The museum went on to describe 70mm as a "must-see experience for film fans," highlighting its superior visual quality and immersive capabilities. It’s the quality that digital has been working towards.

Christopher Nolan himself played a role in the making of "Sinners." He received a credit in the film for providing Coogler with valuable insight on shooting with large-format photography, drawing on his own extensive experience in the field. Emma Thomas, Nolan’s wife and producing partner, also assisted Coogler during filming, further underscoring the collaborative spirit of the filmmaking community.

The return of "Sinners" to IMAX 70mm is a significant event for film enthusiasts. It offers a rare opportunity to experience a modern film in a format that is renowned for its visual fidelity, immersive qualities, and overall cinematic impact. The film’s success is a testament to Coogler’s vision, the talent of the cast and crew, and the enduring appeal of the theatrical experience.

The list of theaters showing "Sinners" in 70mm, provided by IMAX, is highly anticipated by fans eager to partake in this limited-time event. For those fortunate enough to live near one of these select venues, the opportunity to see "Sinners" in IMAX 70mm is not to be missed. It’s a chance to witness a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Jonathan Limehouse from USA TODAY contributed to the original reporting.