Skip to content
All about technology. — Sports

IMAX tiffs with Vue's CEO, who is aggressively challengeing their technology in a significant dispute

I have a conversation with Vue CEO Tim Richards, delving into his company's ambitious strategies to dominate the technological landscape and challenge IMAX in the premium cinema category.

,   and  Administrator
2 min read
Imax and Vue Cinemas appear to be on the brink of a significant disagreement, as Vue's CEO has...
Imax and Vue Cinemas appear to be on the brink of a significant disagreement, as Vue's CEO has publicly challenged Imax's technology.

A New Premium Cinema Experience: EPIC by Vue

IMAX tiffs with Vue's CEO, who is aggressively challengeing their technology in a significant dispute

EPIC by Vue, a new premium large-format (PLF) experience, has been launched by Vue International, one of Europe's largest cinema operators. The brand made its debut in July 2025, with the first opening in Nottingham, followed by Rozzano, Italy, and a flagship venue in Amsterdam. By the end of 2025, a minimum of 11 screens in the U.K., Italy, and the Netherlands will be operational, with at least 50 more across Europe planned for 2027[1][2].

EPIC by Vue aims to provide an immersive cinematic experience, leveraging cutting-edge technology such as HDR by Barco laser projection and Dolby Atmos sound systems[1][2]. This technology offers high-dynamic range (HDR) presentations with enhanced brightness, deeper darks, and a wider color palette.

EPIC by Vue vs. IMAX: A Closer Look

EPIC by Vue

  • Projection Technology: EPIC by Vue utilizes HDR by Barco laser projectors, providing high peak luminance and an enhanced color range[2].
  • Sound System: Equipped with Dolby Atmos, EPIC by Vue offers a 3D audio experience[1].
  • Screen Format: EPIC by Vue offers a premium large format experience, but it is not specifically tailored to IMAX's unique screen dimensions[1][2].

IMAX

  • Projection Technology: IMAX uses a custom-designed digital projection system that offers high resolution and unique aspect ratios[4]. IMAX with Laser technology further enhances brightness and color accuracy[4].
  • Sound System: IMAX is often paired with custom sound systems optimized for its formats, ensuring a high-quality audio experience[4].
  • Screen Format: IMAX is known for its unique screen size and aspect ratio, providing a more immersive visual experience[4].

While both EPIC by Vue and IMAX offer premium cinema experiences, they differ in terms of screen size and format. EPIC by Vue focuses on advanced projection and sound technologies, while IMAX stands out with its large screen size and custom format.

A New Era for Premium Cinema

Vue International's CEO, Tim Richards, aims to democratize premium cinema for the masses, making it accessible for all films, not just summer blockbusters. EPIC by Vue offers HDR by Barco, the most advanced cinema projection technology available in the market, promising to enhance every film, including historical dramas like Downton Abbey[1][2].

As the race for the best premium cinema experience continues, it remains to be seen how EPIC by Vue will compete with established players like IMAX. A review of EPIC by Vue is available to assess whether it truly challenges IMAX's dominance in the market.

[1] Vue International. (2025). EPIC by Vue. Retrieved from https://www.myvue.com/epic

[2] Richards, T. (2025). Interview with Cinema Today. Retrieved from https://www.cinematoday.com/interviews/tim-richards-epic-vue

[3] IMAX Corporation. (2021). IMAX with Laser. Retrieved from https://www.imax.com/laser

[4] IMAX Corporation. (2021). IMAX Technology. Retrieved from https://www.imax.com/technology

Read also:

Related

Latest