IMAX with laser tech debuts in Türkiye with ‘Joker: Folie a Deux’
IMAX's new technology, "IMAX with laser," which offers advanced cinema systems, was introduced at a special screening of Joker: Folie a Deux, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, Türkiye, October 2, 2024 (AA Photo)
The latest innovation in cinema technology, IMAX with laser, made its Türkiye debut with a special screening of “Joker: Folie a Deux”, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. This event was held at CineNOVA Marmara Forum, introducing moviegoers to an enhanced visual and auditory experience.
New era of IMAX technology in Türkiye
Muzaffer Yildirim, founder of CineNOVA Cinemas, shared insights about this new 4K laser projection system.
“Our cinema is the first in Türkiye to showcase the new IMAX technology. We’ve customized our theaters to meet IMAX standards, creating entirely new screening environments. The image quality is significantly different from the previous IMAX, and I believe movie enthusiasts will make their way to Marmara Forum to see the difference firsthand. We will continue investing in this superior laser projection technology for IMAX,” Yildirim stated.
Yildirim also highlighted the growing interest in cinemas post-pandemic, noting, “By the end of this year, we expect to welcome 40 million cinema-goers. With our new technology, we plan to increase this figure to 60 million next year. Currently, we have IMAX with laser available in Marmara Forum and Ankara Gordion, with new locations set to open soon.”
Film designed for IMAX
John Schreiner, IMAX senior ice president, emphasized that “Joker: Folie a Deux” was specifically filmed for IMAX.
“We began collaborating with director Todd Phillips and the cast during pre-production. Phillips used IMAX cameras to shoot this film, and it was then brought to our Los Angeles office, where we remastered it using our proprietary DMR technology,” Schreiner explained.
Schreiner continued by detailing the benefits of IMAX with laser, saying, “This technology delivers sharper, brighter, and higher contrast images. It enhances every sound – dialogue, effects and music – so you hear everything with incredible clarity. Every film you watch in this theater has been meticulously developed and personalized for your viewing pleasure. In 2025, we will bring 14 major Hollywood productions shot for IMAX to audiences, promising a full slate of exciting content.”
The exclusive screening, attended by press members and film critics, also welcomed CineNOVA’s General Manager Asim Hakan Askar.
IMAX with laser technology is set to provide Türkiye’s moviegoers with a new experience, beginning with “Joker: Folie a Deux”. CineNOVA’s pioneering efforts signal a major leap forward in the country’s cinema landscape, offering audiences an unrivaled level of immersion and quality.
