FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions :

Q.What is IMAX / what does it mean?
Q.What is a DMR film?
Q.What age group is IMAX suitable for?
Q.2D and 3D films – are all IMAX films 3D & if not, why not?
Q.I wear spectacles; can I still wear 3D glasses?
Q.I am visually impaired, can I watch a 3D film?
Q.Do I need to pre book IMAX tickets?
Q.Can I film an IMAX screening?
Q.What films are available on DVD?
Q.Are IMAX Gift Vouchers available for sale?
Q.Are there discounts for Groups?
Q.Can the IMAX auditorium be hired out?

What is IMAX / What does it mean?

IMAX is the brand name of one of the world’s leading entertainment technology companies. The name IMAX is derived from ‘Image Maximum’ and has been developed by the IMAX Corporation of Canada

See About IMAX

What is an IM AX DMR Film?

IMAX DMR stands for ‘Digital Re-mastering’ – this is revolutionary technology that makes it possible for a conventional 35mm film to be transformed into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience

For more information see About IMAX

What age group is IMAX suitable for?

All IMAX films are subject to certification from the British Board of Film Classification. U & PG rated films are generally suitable for children of 3 yrs or older, when viewed on an IMAX screen. Whilst some small children love the experience, others can find it overwhelming. The immersive affect of the ‘IMAX Experience’ on a giant screen is a very different experience to watching the came content on a home TV, or even regular 35mm cinema. If you are in any doubt, please investigate the content and certification of a film before taking young children.

See Films and Film Classifications

2D & 3D films – are all IMAX films 3D and if not, why not?

A 2D film is shot using one roll of film and one lens (as in 35mm traditional cinema). A 3D film is shot using two rolls of film and two lenses (corresponding to the left and the right eye). If a film was not shot in 3D it cannot be screened and experienced as a 3D movie.

Some of the films screening at our Cinema were only ever made as 2D films, so although our cinema can show 3D movies it does not mean all films can be screened in 3D. 3D films are marked as such on our website and printed schedules - special glasses are required for viewing. If you are not sure if a film is 2D or 3D ask our Ticket Office staff before buying a ticket.

IMAX is a Giant Screen movie format & at IMAX Cinema, Birmingham (having the largest screen in the Midlands) we show giant films. Many people associate IMAX with 3D and whilst IMAX 3D is the worlds leading 3D technology, it is wrong to assume all our programmed films are screened in 3D.

I wear spectacles; can I still wear 3 glasses?

Yes, our 3D glasses will fit over spectacles

I have impaired vision; can I watch a 3D film?

If you are blind in one eye, and want to come along to see a 3D film, then you will still need to wear a pair of 3D glasses so that your one ‘good’ eye can only see one of the projected images – otherwise the picture would look fuzzy. The image will not jump-out of the screen at you giving a true 3D effect. It will look like a regular 2D movie, however, as this is an IMAX cinema you will still benefit from the impressive “IMAX Experience”. If you have limited visual impairment in one or both eyes, then you will still see the full 3D effect, as long as you can see the images through both eyes.

For more information see About IMAX

Do I need to pre book IMAX tickets?

IMAX films generally have seats available, but be aware that preview screenings, and opening weekends of new movies can be busy. We operate a ‘free seating’ policy at IMAX Cinema and seats are not allocated within the auditorium. Tickets can be booked in advance or on the day of the performance via our website www.thinktank.ac or by ringing the Ticket Office on 0121 202 2222

See Prices and Booking

Can I film an IMAX screening?

No – all forms of filming and photography is strictly prohibited at IMAX Cinema, Birmingham; due to copyright laws.

What films are available on DVD?

The IMAX Experience is an out-of–home experience that cannot be matched by any home entertainment system. However, if you want to take a little piece of The IMAX Experience home with you as a memento, three places you can buy giant screen films on DVD are : www.dvdplanet.com; www.slingshotent.com; www.amazon.com

Are IMAX Gift Vouchers available for sale?

Yes – these can be obtained directly through the Ticket Office by ringing 0121 202 2222.

Are there discounts for Groups?

Yes – Concessionary rates apply for 10+, free on site coach parking and free entry for coach drivers. To book a group visit, please ring 0121 202 2244

See Groups