Today we went to see the latest James Cameron film, Alita, Battle Angle in a Screen X (https://www.cineplex.com/Theatres/screenx) theatre. There aren't very many Screen X theatres and the tickets are slightly more expensive than a regular film but there are projections on the left and right of the screen so that you have a 270-degree view. It's an immersive experience; I cannot wait until they have projections above and below the screen too.
The quality and the sound of the theatre is excellent as the movie still takes place in a modern theatre. ScreenX adds some projections of slightly lesser quality now and again to the sides of the theatre, you can notice the corners and a slight drop in quality but the wider view is definitely better. I took a few pictures of the introduction to the technology just to share with you all.
To the Right
And
To the Left
You can notice the exit signs and a slight decrease in quality, the photos don't do it justice as it was amazing when the lights were low. The corners aren't as noticeable because when you are watching a movie you tend to follow the action and plot more, regular theatres just stop after the screen. ScreenX allows for more creativity in the cinematography as keeping all the action centered is not crucial; in fight scenes and pan-outs this allows for some particularly unique viewing experiences.
In Conclusion
The technology is new and only 33% or so of the movie was modified for ScreenX but it definitely has potential and it is the future. If you have ever seen a virtual reality short, you will know that the ability to see around you is definitely better, why restrict yourself to a single vantage point. Bigger, wider, more immersive, 3D, surround sound, etc. anything that allows us to easily escape the surroundings we are in and enter a new world is welcome. Seeing Alita, Battle Angel on ScreenX is highly recommended if you like technology, movies and a superior viewing experience.
