Spider-Man: No Way Home
Sony Pictures, DTS Extend Imax Enhanced Home Entertainment Distribution Deal
January 4, 2023
Sony Pictures Entertainment and DTS, an audio sound distributor, Jan. 4 announced an expansion of the Imax Enhanced ecosystem with the studio agreeing to release multiple new theatrical movies in the format during their respective home entertainment retail windows over the next few years.
Imax Enhanced technology aims to replicate the brand’s theatrical experience in the home, including signature picture, sound and scale. Imax digitally remastered 4K HDR content and DTS:X premium audio can be accessed in the home through high-end consumer electronics, including 4K UHD televisions and streaming platforms.
Sony titles delivered in 4K HDR featuring Imax proprietary digital remastering (DMR), expanded aspect ratio (select sequences) and Imax Signature Sound by DTS, include theatrical releases Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, A Man Called Otto, Madame Web, Gran Turismo, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and The Equalizer 3, among others.
This deal also includes exclusive Imax Enhanced and DTS:X UHD boxed sets (titles to be announced). Imax Enhanced releases will remain available across Europe, North America and Asia Pacific regions.
“Our commitment to the Imax Enhanced program remains steadfast, with numerous additional titles from the legendary SPE catalog, as well as select new, theatrical releases for best-in-class home entertainment,” Pete Wood, SVP of digital sales and distribution at SPE, said in a statement.
The Imax Enhanced format, which is available on most streaming platforms worldwide, uses proprietary digital remastering technology developed by the exhibitor to deliver an ultra-vivid 4K HDR picture. Select Imax Enhanced content features the brand’s signature expanded aspect ratio — providing up to 26% more picture. Imax and DTS have also partnered with select Hollywood sound mixers to use a special variant of the DTS:X codec technology to deliver a cinema-grade Imax signature sound experience on consumer devices.
“Experiencing a movie with DTS sound allows the viewer to feel as if they are a part of the story — and is a memorable experience,” said Bill Neighbors, chief content officer of parent Xperi.
“Today’s announcement represents the latest milestone for Imax Enhanced as Sony Pictures Entertainment, Imax and DTS continue to work together to redefine high-quality home entertainment experiences,” added Vikram Arumilli, SVP and GM of streaming and consumer technology at Imax Corporation.