Wanda Film and IMAX Corporation strengthen alliance with new strategic expansion

Wanda Film, China’s largest film exhibitor, in partnership with IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) and IMAX China (HKSE: 1970), has announced an extensive agreement to upgrade and expand their collaboration. This deal reinforces Wanda Film’s position as the top IMAX circuit in China, featuring the latest IMAX with Laser technology across 61 key locations including premier theaters in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

The strategic partnership will see Wanda Film not only renew contracts for 37 existing IMAX locations but also add up to 25 new IMAX theaters over the next three years, contingent on mutual agreement. The upgraded locations will be equipped with the state-of-the-art IMAX with Laser systems, known for their crystal clear, lifelike images and precision audio, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience.

In addition to technological enhancements, Wanda Pictures and IMAX will collaborate on producing exclusive content spanning documentaries, music, gaming, and sports. This initiative builds on their longstanding relationship, which has already seen success with films like the 2021 IMAX hit “Detective Chinatown 3.”

Ms. Chen Zhixi, Chair of Wanda Film, expressed the company’s dedication to enhancing the cinematic experience: “For years, Wanda Film has been a pioneer in adopting and promoting premium projection technology. We are excited to continue this journey with IMAX, ensuring that our audiences enjoy the most immersive viewing experience available.”

Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX, commented on the deal’s strategic importance: “This agreement not only renews our commitment with China’s largest exhibitor but also strengthens IMAX’s lead in immersive cinema technology in a key market.”

The agreement heralds a strong lineup of both Chinese and Hollywood films scheduled for release in IMAX over the next few years, including a record 14 Filmed for IMAX releases in 2025. These developments are expected to attract more audiences to theaters, leveraging IMAX’s enhanced visual and audio technologies.