Amazon MGM Studios is pulling out all the stops to ensure audiences experience their upcoming sci-fi film, “Project Hail Mary,” in the most immersive way possible. The studio is releasing the Ryan Gosling-led space epic in a staggering 12 different theatrical formats, from traditional digital to fully sensory 4DX experiences.
Immersive Technologies Take Center Stage
Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller recently showcased some of the newfangled technologies theaters are rolling out to lure viewers back. These include:
- D-Box: Interactive seats that move and rumble in sync with the on-screen action.
- ScreenX: 270-degree viewing with extended scenes wrapping around side screens.
- Cinemark XD: Massive six-story screens, 35 trillion colors, and advanced surround sound.
- 4DX: Wind, water, smells, and other sensory effects to make viewers feel part of the movie.
- Dolby Cinema: Top-tier picture and sound with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.
Technical Specs Drive Immersion
“Project Hail Mary” was filmed using the ARRI ALEXA 65 camera, which is designed to fill IMAX’s 70mm 1.43 aspect ratio screens. The film will also be available in other formats, including IMAX 1.43, 2.39, and standard 1.85 or 2.39 ratios, depending on the theater.
Why This Matters
The move to offer so many formats is a clear attempt to combat streaming and entice audiences back to theaters. By delivering an experience that can’t be replicated at home, studios are betting on premium formats to drive ticket sales. The question remains whether audiences will pay extra for these enhanced screenings, or whether the novelty will wear off quickly.
The film is scheduled for release on March 20, 2026.
