by Scott Jentsch

Sep 19, 2008

As I mentioned in my review of the non-IMAX version of the movie, this movie is definitely a See Now!

Adding to that is the IMAX version, which integrates sequences that were shot on IMAX film, taking advantage of the higher resolution of the IMAX film frame, creating stunning shots! The aspect ratios of the 35mm frame and the IMAX frame are different, so during the IMAX sequences, the letterbox effect on IMAX screens is removed, showing a full screen of scenes like an overhead view of Batman at the top of a building surveying the city below. This is just like all those sweeping IMAX documentary shots that make you go wow at the museums, except that it's in a feature-length motion picture!

The transitions between the IMAX and 35mm sequences are done well, so you don't have a jarring move from one to the other. Kudos to the filmmakers for creating a great movie-watching experience!

IMAX theaters are known for their sound-handling capabilities, and this movie definitely takes full advantage of that. Sound comes from everywhere, and the excellent score is always there taking you from one scene to the next, keeping up the intensity when appropriate and letting you take a short breath before the movie ramps it up a couple of notches again.

If you've seen the non-IMAX version, the IMAX version is definitely worth checking out! IMAX DMR movies are just blown up copies of 35mm that never really impressed me, but the fact that there is real IMAX footage in this movie and that the sound screams for speakers that can handle it, this movie justifies the extra cost that IMAX theaters charge! 

by Thom Straus

Jan 19, 2009

great movie!