A Hero's Return Just Got Bigger

In a joint press release the IMAX Corporation and Warner Brothers Pictures announced on Wednesday that an IMAX 3-D version of Superman Returns is being prepared to bow on June 30th, 2006---The same day the film hits traditional movie theaters.

Studio films have been released in the IMAX format in the past, but SR marks the first time that the unique look of IMAX will be combined with 3-D technology, by using a special 2-D conversion process.

"Releasing select sequences of 'Superman Returns' in IMAX 3D marks a groundbreaking moment in movies," said Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution at Warner Bros. Pictures. "This film is going to give fans an opportunity to be immersed in a major live-action motion picture like never before."

"The test scenes that have been converted into IMAX 3D look, sound and feel absolutely amazing," added Bryan Singer, director of Superman Returns. "The magic of IMAX 3D will envelop audiences in this story, enabling them to feel the emotion, drama and suspense in a completely new and unique way."

"We are delighted to partner with pioneering visionaries Bryan Singer and Warner Bros. Pictures to transform part of this highly anticipated release into An IMAX 3D Experience," said IMAX Co-Chairmen and Co-CEOs Richard L. Gelfond and Bradley J. Wechsler. "Today's announcement is a culmination of a great film, a great filmmaker, a great studio, and great technology - all working together to produce the most powerful and immersive cinematic experience available to moviegoers worldwide."

The announcement of an IMAX release for the film is no surprise, of course, and I have to admit the 3-D aspect sounds really cool.