IMAX Corp. and Twentieth Century Fox announced that Night at the Museum, directed by Shawn Levy (THE PINK PANTHER and CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN) and starring Ben Stiller and Robin Williams, would be simultaneously released to both IMAX and conventional theaters on Dec. 22. The adventure comedy with vfx from Rhythm & Hues, The Orphanage, Rainmaker and Gentle Giant marks the seventh IMAX DMR film secured for 2006, the largest number of Hollywood blockbusters slated for release to IMAX theaters in a single year.
"NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM will look and sound incredible in IMAX's immersive format, and we are excited to offer moviegoers a chance to experience this event motion picture in a unique and premium way," said Bruce Snyder, president, Domestic Distribution, Twentieth Century Fox. "We are thrilled to once again extend our relationship with IMAX and look forward to releasing this delightful film to the IMAX theater network."
Added Fox International co-presidents Paul Hanneman and Tomas Jegeus, "The timing is exceptional for this release internationally as the IMAX format is growing in both popularity and locations overseas. We think the theme and content of NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM is a perfect complement to both commercial and institutional IMAX locations worldwide."
"The comic genius of Ben Stiller and Robin Williams combined with the film's outrageous action should fit nicely into our well-rounded year-end lineup of Hollywood films," said IMAX co-ceo's Richard L. Gelfond and Bradley J. Wechsler. "With a third film commitment from Twentieth Century Fox, and a seventh title for 2006, it is clear that Hollywood studios recognize the value of the IMAX theater network as a distribution platform. We believe the film's unique setting and subject matter makes it ideal for both our commercial and institutional theaters. "
"We are delighted to continue our partnership with Twentieth Century Fox to offer moviegoers another immersive and exciting experience in IMAX theaters," added Greg Foster, chairman and president of IMAX Filmed Ent. "NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM is an excellent fit for the IMAX theater network, which includes a large number of museums and institutions around the world. This holiday season, audiences will be able to experience the spectacle of the museum's magical exhibits coming to life in an immersive way that only The IMAX Experience can deliver."
Previous Fox films digitally re-mastered into IMAX's format include STAR WARS: EPISODE II ATTACK OF THE CLONES and ROBOTS.
Founded in 1967, IMAX Corp. (www.imax.com) is one of the world's leading entertainment technology companies and the newest distribution window for Hollywood films. IMAX delivers among the world's best cinematic presentations using proprietary IMAX, IMAX 3-D, and IMAX DMR technology. The IMAX brand is recognized throughout the world for extraordinary and immersive entertainment experiences. As of June 30, 2006, there were 274 IMAX theaters operating in 38 countries.
Bill Desowitz, former editor of VFXWorld, is currently the Crafts Editor of IndieWire.
