The intricate and awe-inspiring world of 70mm IMAX film projection is brought to light in a compelling new video from the Tested YouTube channel, featuring the ever-enthusiastic Adam Savage. In a deep dive into the heart of IMAX operations, Savage embarks on a comprehensive tour of the company’s Los Angeles headquarters, offering viewers an unprecedented look at the meticulous processes involved in preparing and projecting films in this unparalleled large-format. The video, released on April 14, 2026, serves as a timely exploration of a cinematic format experiencing a resurgence, with several major 70mm IMAX releases slated for theaters this year.
A Glimpse into the IMAX Vault and Projection Mastery
The Tested video, spanning approximately 20 minutes, transports viewers behind the scenes of IMAX’s Los Angeles facility, a hub of innovation and preservation for large-format cinema. Adam Savage, renowned for his passion for all things technical and cinematic, is granted access to the inner sanctum where 70mm film prints are handled with the utmost care. The footage showcases the sheer scale and complexity of this format, emphasizing that a single frame in 70mm IMAX is nearly ten times larger than that found on standard 35mm film. This significant difference in surface area translates directly into a vastly superior visual experience, characterized by astonishing detail, vibrant colors, and an immersive quality that digital formats often struggle to replicate.
A central focus of the documentary is the hands-on work of print managers, exemplified by a dedicated technician named Irving. Irving, a seasoned expert in the field, guides Savage through the intricate steps of film preparation, from inspecting individual reels to the delicate process of splicing. The video highlights the dedication required to maintain these analog projectors and the vast film archives, a testament to IMAX’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the cinematic experience. The palpable excitement shared between Savage and Irving underscores the deep appreciation for the craft and the enduring magic of film projection.
The tour also provides a glimpse into the future, with the revelation that a print for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, The Odyssey, is being prepared within the very facilities being explored. This connection to a highly anticipated major motion picture underscores the continued relevance and prestige of 70mm IMAX, particularly for filmmakers who prioritize an uncompromised visual presentation. The anticipation of witnessing such a film in its intended format is a sentiment that resonates throughout the video, evoking a sense of longing for the shared experience of grand cinematic storytelling.
The Resurgence of 70mm IMAX: A Commitment to Quality
The increased focus on 70mm IMAX in 2026 is not merely a nostalgic nod to the past but a strategic endeavor to uphold the highest standards of cinematic exhibition. IMAX Corporation has been actively working to maintain its network of operational 70mm film projectors, primarily located in the United States and Canada. This effort, however, is fraught with challenges, as the cost of maintaining this specialized equipment and the need for highly skilled technicians make it a significant undertaking. The video implicitly argues that the investment is justified by the unparalleled viewing experience that 70mm IMAX offers.
Large Format projection, with 70mm IMAX at its apex, represents the pinnacle of visual fidelity in cinema. The immense detail captured by the larger film frame allows for breathtaking clarity, deep blacks, and a dynamic range that few other formats can match. This is particularly crucial for visually ambitious films that aim to transport audiences to other worlds or immerse them in complex narratives. The tactile nature of film, the subtle grain, and the organic quality of light projected from physical celluloid contribute to a unique and often more emotionally resonant viewing experience.
The ongoing commitment to 70mm IMAX projection is a conscious decision to offer audiences a superior alternative to standard digital formats. While digital projection offers convenience and cost-effectiveness, it often sacrifices the depth, texture, and sheer visual impact that 70mm film provides. IMAX’s dedication to keeping these projectors operational signifies a belief in the enduring power of tangible media and a commitment to providing filmmakers with the ultimate canvas for their artistic visions.
Historical Context and Technical Specifications
The history of IMAX dates back to the late 1960s, with its origins rooted in the desire to create a more immersive and impactful cinematic experience. The development of the 70mm IMAX format was a significant leap forward, utilizing a film strip that is 70mm wide, with each frame being 15 perforations long. This is in stark contrast to the standard 35mm film, which is 35mm wide and typically 4 perforations long. The increased surface area of the 70mm frame allows for significantly higher resolution and a much greater capacity to capture fine detail.
The aspect ratio of IMAX films also contributes to their immersive quality. Traditional IMAX films often utilize a near-square aspect ratio (approximately 1.43:1), which fills a much larger portion of the viewer’s field of vision compared to the widescreen formats commonly used in conventional cinemas. This expansive aspect ratio, combined with the immense detail of the 70mm print, creates a sensation of being present within the film’s world.
The projection process itself is a marvel of engineering. IMAX projectors are massive, complex machines designed to handle the heavy 70mm film reels and project them onto exceptionally large screens. The precision required to thread the film, maintain proper focus, and ensure consistent illumination is immense. The technicians who operate these projectors are highly specialized, possessing a deep understanding of film mechanics and optics. The video’s depiction of these processes highlights the human element and the dedication involved in bringing these films to life.
A Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration
The Tested YouTube channel, under Adam Savage’s guidance, has consistently explored the technical intricacies and creative processes behind various forms of media. This latest exploration into 70mm IMAX filmmaking builds upon a rich history of content that delves into the world of props, restoration, and behind-the-scenes access to creative endeavors. Previous features have included insights into the creation of props for iconic films like Blade Runner, the meticulous restoration of a century-old animated film, and visits to the archives of legendary figures like Jim Henson.
Savage’s engagement with the Fifth Element at PropStore and his exploration of the spaceship set from Project Hail Mary further illustrate his commitment to demystifying the craft of filmmaking and celebrating the ingenuity involved. His participation in this IMAX documentary is a natural extension of this ethos, providing an accessible and engaging entry point into a highly specialized area of cinematic exhibition.
The mention of upcoming major releases like Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey and Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three in the context of 70mm IMAX reinforces the format’s appeal to contemporary filmmakers who are pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. These directors, like many of their predecessors, recognize that 70mm IMAX offers a unique opportunity to deliver an unparalleled cinematic experience that cannot be fully replicated through other mediums.
Broader Implications and the Future of Cinematic Exhibition
The resurgence of interest in 70mm IMAX projection has broader implications for the future of cinematic exhibition. It suggests a growing audience appreciation for high-quality, immersive viewing experiences, moving beyond the passive consumption of content. The investment required to maintain and operate 70mm projectors can be seen as a commitment to artistic integrity and a recognition of the unique value that physical film projection offers.
For filmmakers, the availability of 70mm IMAX provides an incentive to craft visually stunning narratives designed to capitalize on the format’s capabilities. This, in turn, can lead to more ambitious and breathtaking cinematic achievements. The collaboration between filmmakers, studios, and IMAX to produce and exhibit films in this format fosters a symbiotic relationship that benefits both creators and audiences.
While the digital revolution has undeniably transformed the landscape of filmmaking and distribution, the continued existence and even revival of analog formats like 70mm IMAX suggest that there is a persistent demand for the tangible, the visceral, and the artistically superior. The Tested video serves as a powerful reminder that even in an increasingly digital world, the magic of the silver screen, particularly when experienced in its grandest and most pristine form, continues to captivate and inspire. The question posed at the end of the original article, "Have you seen movies in IMAX 70mm?", invites a broader conversation about audience preferences and the diverse ways in which we consume and appreciate cinematic art. The journey through IMAX’s 70mm film projection, as expertly guided by Adam Savage, illuminates the dedication, technical prowess, and artistic passion that underpin this extraordinary cinematic format.
