IMAX vs Dolby Cinema | What's The Best Movie Theater Experience?

[@Diyomaro]

I'm all in on Dolby Cinema. While I'm lucky to have a true IMAX in my city, the Dolby is just next level. Also, they don't skimp on the bass there. The batmobile scene was next level in The Batman

[@justinbeamon6624]

Exactly!!! That part in the Dolby made the whole movie for me hahaha.

[@ZEROxLAG]

Holy shit I feel you, I experienced this with Dune 2021 and the bass was so alien-like. I fell in love.

[@sofreshsogreen]

I love Dolby Cinema, but their seats are the worst part of the experience for me. There is just no adjustment level that allows me to be in a comfortable viewing position at all. Definitely need to be able to lift legs to go up higher than 30 degrees and recline a bit more.

[@ResidentGoodV]

the batmobile scene in dolby was so awesome, the whole place was shaking

[@brettlueckfeld6248]

I’ve been doing Dolby Cinema the last few years. For me it’s just a hands down better experience. Aspect ratio aside, picture, sound & comfort win for Dolby Cinema!

[@ryz.n6383]

I wish I could try, we only have two Dolby Cinemas in Germany and they are far away from me as a teenager with no car. But I am lucky to live near Karlsruhe, where the IMAX cinema is true 1,43:1 IMAX and a bit further away is the Traumpalast Leonberg with the biggest IMAX screen on the world, built not even a year ago with extremely comfortable seating too.

[@HappyNico12]

No I think imax because your on a ride getting wet

[@TrioLOLGamers]

@@ryz.n6383 i have seen Avatar 2 on IMAX 1:43 and I was a bit disappointed... Good, but not the best. Probably suits more Nolan films shots on 70mm, but not on any other film. That's probably why even IMAX shows in their demos the IMAX Digital aspect ratio: having 18k is just a gimmic when people still strugle seeing the difference between uncompressed 2k and 4k. I have a Dolby Atmos/Cinema with a 30m screen and Leopard Speakers here in Italy but it is 1hour far from my city... Everyone says that is it amazing... Hope one day i will try it... Atmos even without good speakers sound good (there is an Atmos cinema near but it is meh. Normal laser 4k Sony projector...)

[@icydec3346]

@@TrioLOLGamers Avatar isn't a 1.43:1 movie

[@TrioLOLGamers]

@@icydec3346 they've showed that with high aspect ratio but still it is not a true Imax film, only few films are recorded on IMAX 70mm. I'll see Openheimer when it comes out: it is shot on 70mm.

[@SoapNugget]

IMAX for films shot in IMAX, Dolby for everything else

[@doomerconsumer]

this is the way

[@shouryapalsai1047]

Also 3D for Imax 2D for Dolby cinema

[@Ravn7]

​@@shouryapalsai1047 3D visuals and 3D audio is such a good combination. So Dolby is better for 3D

[@shouryapalsai1047]

@@Ravn7 Doesn't Imax enhanced provide DTS X?

[@Ravn7]

@@shouryapalsai1047 In an actual IMAX theatre the most you will get it 12 cannel sourround.

[@joits]

I always go with Dolby, but sometimes I have to choose the Lie-Max screen because it's just more convenient. Determined to see Oppenheimer in 70mm IMAX so even though I'm seeing it two weeks after the release date, at least I'll be seeing it in the way that Nolan intended. The one thing I like about seeing movies on AMC's Laser IMAX is that the Nicole Kiidman AMC ad is way shorter than when I see a movie on Dolby.

[@jamesprice2787]

I was thinking more of the comfort the movie is like 3hrs

[@FeviviViper]

Can you explain to me Lie-Max? I think I know what you’re talking about but I’m researching right now and want to make sure

[@joits]

@@FeviviViper Here's a good video explaining it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4O8fnR9m9SjbpY. Unfortunately there aren't very many real IMAX screens left.

[@FeviviViper]

@@joits I know. Im in oregon and there is not a single real imax here. Closest one is in California 🫤 there is atleast a 70mm screen without imax in Portland that plays classic movies all the time and the odd 70mm new releases like Oppenheimer. I might just go for that

[@dabz___]

Lol

[@avtechman77]

I perfer a true IMAX over Dolby for screen size and dynamic impact. I choose Dolby for the comfort

[@PerfectorZY]

I chose Dolby for sound. IMAX only really has screen size which. Which, if it’s a true IMAX theater I’d go watch it, then go watch it again in a Dolby cinema to hear everything I missed lol.

[@Mrs_Puffington]

Same. IMAX pulls me into the movie more. That said, I really do enjoy the dolby-image a lot. Depends on the movie too. I’d watch an animated movie in a Dolby Cinema and something like Too Gun in an IMAX.

[@cheekster777]

Good video Shane. Thank you. 🙏🏻 I did the same comparison at Leicester Square, London back in 2019 watching Captain Marvel in Dolby Cinema followed by IMAX with Dual 4K Laser GT. For immersive viewing it was no contest as the Dolby Cinema screen (13.1m x 7m) felt like it was postage stamp sized in relation to the huge auditorium at the Odeon flagship cinema in comparison to IMAX (26m x 15.2m) across the square. That’s a *HUGE* difference in size no matter where you choose to sit. The video quality (colours, HDR and black levels) were very good in Dolby Cinema. The Dolby Atmos audio including low-end bass was also decent. Leather recliners were comfortable and there was no issues with leg room. There are 400 speakers (and I think 128-channels?). IMAX with Dual Laser offered very good video quality and decent audio. However, there was less noticeable surround and overhead activity compared to Dolby Atmos. The seats are pretty standard IMAX seats i.e. not comfortable leather recliners and legroom for tall people is pitiful! IMAX with Laser (whether single 4K projector aka CoLa - Commercial Laser or Dual 4K GT - Grand Theater) both use 12-channel audio. This includes four height speakers and an additional two side surround speakers over the older 6-channel audio that older IMAX installations use (both 15/70mm IMAX film plus 2x2K Xenon). I can’t find the screen dimensions of AMC Danbury 16 IMAX but from what you mentioned in this video about there being no height speakers I imagine it is Xenon *not* Laser and only has a 6-channel audio system installed. Some people refer to these screens as LieMax. It is a very different experience from watching a movie containing expanded aspect IMAX ratio on an 1.43:1 IMAX screen or a massive 1.90:1 IMAX with Laser screen. I’m surprised and disappointed to hear you didn’t watch the whole of Thor: Love and Thunder in IMAX. It wasn’t even a long movie Dude! 🙄🤔 I think it’s fair to say there are pros and cons of both formats and it depends on which movie you’re watching and at which venue as to which will be the better experience. Also, depends what the viewer considers are the most important factors i.e. immersive screen experience, audio quality, seat comfort etc.

[@JasonMcGhan]

Been to my Dolby Cinema nearly 25 times. I'll choose it (for a first viewing) over IMAX with the exception of movies that I'm excited about with expanded sequences. Stunning image, incredible atmos. The problem with IMAX is the inconsistent audio setups. I was lucky to catch several 1.43 70MM film projection IMAX showings of TENET with impeccable audio, but then seeing DUNE in dual laser 1.43 up at the Udvar-Hazy IMAX in DC had a substantially worse setup. I'm lucky my local AMC has a somewhat large IMAX, but nothing compares to a full 1.43 screen. Seems like more and more movies are being shot and released in that format (LIGHTYEAR, NOPE, etc), but there are only a handful in the US and elsewhere that are capable of showing them as intended.

[@jbrads1828]

Saw The Batman both in imax and dolby, it's Dolby for me. Picture and Sound can't be beat, and for reference the theater I go to is AMC in Port Chester, NY

[@PowerGlove79]

I had my first experience with Dolby Cinema tonight when I went to see the re release of Die Hard. And the stand out by far was the sound. I could feel my seat vibrate pretty intensely at times but not to where it was hard to understand dialogue. And the film looked beautiful. I’m definitely going back

[@starg47]

The problem with IMAX is inconsistency, some have large screens while others are much smaller, Dolby is always excellent with the comfy seats, and the best surround sound.

[@NickMichalak]

Yeah, I've yet to encounter a truly HUGE IMAX screen in the Chicago suburbs. We don't even have a laser projection screen in the state, as far as the research I saw shows. Give me that Dolby Vision HDR in 4K to blow me away. Also, I'm not a real big fan of shifting aspect ratios. I'd prefer the whole film be shot in the tall format instead of two or three sequences being shot for IMAX.

[@starg47]

@@NickMichalak oh, too bad there is none where you are. IMAX fails to innovate, they're stuck in the past, and its not fair to pay IMAX prices for a fake IMAX experience, I think they're a terrible company, no standards, I only watch Dolby now

[@voidenterthehighlights]

@@NickMichalak I'm watching oppenheimer at dolby cinema at river east 21

[@Yoursistersazz]

Those seats suck

[@GFRDarthSavage]

I go to dolby no matter what. Unless the movie im going to see isn't in dolby. Its much more comfortable, the sound is amazing, and the colors are such an upgrade.

[@arashjahn]

What’s up Shane. Great video, we need more of these styles of A vs. B vs. C formats of popular movies that we hope will become part of the reference demo material when the flick arrives on 4K Blu-ray. I agree with the IMAX points you raise. At my theater in Woodland Hills AMC 12, the IMAX was Laser 3D. The Black Adam trailer was great, and Thor itself was loud, extra punchy despite the lack of LFE distribution like Dolby Atmos. I give it to IMAX because of the overall sound extension of the great stereo mastered soundtrack of the movie. All the GNR and Dio throwback cuts were great in the drum pedal kicks, and the entire credit soundtrack was pleasing to watch for those Easter eggs.

[@laspaceboy]

Great video, Shane. I like the personal touch on this one. It’s like your sitting down and talking to us one on one. Also very informative content.

[@NegativeReaper]

Dolby Cinema is usually my go-to premium format, unless the film actually has IMAX footage. Even then, I've found it not as appealing the last few years since it's usually just digital IMAX. I had the pleasure of seeing a 70mm print of Dunkirk at a "real" IMAX near me back in 2017, which was an amazing experience. The seats and Vison+Atmos you get with Dolby trumps most digital IMAX auditoriums for my money.

[@TheCinemaViewer]

This is what I do too! I see all the big movies on Dolby Cinema because that’s my favorite theater format except when it’s a movie specifically filmed for IMAX using IMAX cameras. I saw Dune and now Avatar The Way Of Water on a true IMAX 70mm screen because those movies were filmed using IMAX cameras and they look amazing!

[@Ivangmer07]

In my country, the IMAX theaters are only in 2k resolution at 1:90:1 aspect ratio, and are at least 4-5 dollars more expensive than the dolby theaters, but the thing is in the dolby theaters it still has a pretty big screen, a 4k projector (without dolby vision sadly) and dolby atmos with 60 speakers, 128 audio channels and 30,000 watts of power. So for 4-5 dollars cheaper you get all of that in the dolby theater. And I’m starting to consider watching almost every action/horror movie in that theater because of the dolby atmos and 4k projector.

[@waddupjd]

There's this theater chain in Chicago called Classic Cinemas and some of their theaters offer this format called XQ with their screens being ginormous with pristine laser quality picture. It's like IMAX and Dolby mixed together

[@cheekster777]

Congratulations on surpassing *90k subscribers* guys! Well done! 👏🏻 Not long until 100k and that coveted Silver KZbin Play Button! 😉

[@jennerfrench7236]

I experienced Imax some time ago in the West End, and found this (particularly on a large curved screen exceptionally immersive). Compare this to 3D on the same screen and this is nothing like it. That aside the Dolby widescreen experience unites the visual and aural into one sensational event experience, that was never too quiet and made the gain aspect high and powerful and never just loud. The original Star Wars premiere was an example. Dolby is a luxury I would opt for anytime.

[@GameSack]

The curse of the silver screen! Silver screens are usually used for 3D stuffs because 3D needs all the gain it can get. The biggest issue with silver screens (other than their propensity to flake and appear dirty AF) is hotspotting. Also many multiplex IMAX screens are retrofits of existing auditoriums. The surround speakers on the side of the wall are inactive, not hooked up to anything. They just leave them there from the way the auditorium used to be before they retrofitted it. The IMAX surrounds are actually the large boxes in the rear corners by the ceiling.

[@Bluboy30]

I definitely prefer Dolby Cinema, mostly because of the Dolby Vision and Atmos. I did see Thor 3 at a true IMAX Laser theater and I thought it looked great. I don't believe that IMAX theater is equipped with height speakers, so I didn't hear any sound from above.

[@victorm777ify]

Bro is thor 3 is fake imax

[@Bluboy30]

@@victorm777ify I don't know what you're asking here. Are you asking if Thor 3 was shot with real IMAX cameras or was it shown at fake IMAX theaters? Can you write back in a complete sentence?

[@victorm777ify]

Is not a 100% imax movie. And is not the real cameras like infinity war or end game

[@Bluboy30]

@@victorm777ify I know that, what's your point again? I saw Thor 3 at a true IMAX theater but I know it wasn't shot with true IMAX cameras. And FYI, Infinity War and End Game were not shot with real IMAX cameras, they were shot with IMAX approved cameras.

[@RayzaNC]

Dolby is better. Superior sound, picture and comfort. For 3D IMAX laser is the best option.

[@nonametofame]

Not all Imax are created equal. Dolby, for the most, part, are very consistently comparable.

[@Diyomaro]

I stick to one in my city, but I've heard the same for it's consistency.

[@raygarcia4062]

True, Most sites with IMAX, seating is based on the exibitor. Its up to them to determine what kind of seats they want. There are some IMAX sites that ae much better than dolby cinemas. but Overall, They are both great theatres.

[@willdejong7763]

I came to the same conclusions for the AMC in Lynnwood WA. Dolby cinema's better seats and Atmos sound mix make for a better movie watching experience compared to the mini IMAX across the hall. Visually there are pros and cons for both that mostly balance out in the end. It's been a while, but I have enjoyed the real IMAX in Seattle with its 60 foot tall screen, and I will probably head back there again for a special treat.

[@lockingmailboxinstallers1276]

What’s up with IMAX at AMCs in Washington having the worst seats haha. Maybe it’s everywhere but dang it’s so bad.

[@floriandick4992]

For some reason I always get double contours in 3D in the Dolby theater nearby. Even though I sit straight to the screen. And in the Dolby I never felt the sound like I do in the IMAX Theater. It might not be as nuanced, but it shakes my body everytime there's an impact. Most noticable with the Batman, where every hit shook my stomache to the core. And in direct comparison, Dune was also way more immersive in IMAX for me. Tried the Dolby, had double contours in 3D again and the sound didn't blew me away like the IMAX did. But the problem with this conversation is probably, that even though they have quality controls with the premium screens, it's still different from cinema to cinema. Here in Germany for example, both premium screens are fairly new. IMAX being even newer than Dolby. So the quality of IMAX might be better than the average. :)

[@mikebarbash1319]

I used to live in Danbury, CT and frequently went to the AMC theater there. While I liked the IMAX screen, the Dolby Cinema is my preferred choice. The seats are more comfortable (gotta love leather reclining seats), the picture quality is better due to DV, and the audio is superior.

[@mrc0a124]

I watched Mission Impossible yesterday in a Dolby Cinema for the first time and wow it was amazing the sounds made me look next to me sometimes because I thought it was happening in person

[@ark9515]

From what I have come to know the best version of IMAX is the 70mm IMAX. The rest IMAX incarnations are pale in comparison. Also sitting in 3rd to 5th row in a theater ruins the soundstage in my opinion. You cannot hear the surrounds well if you sit too close to the screen. I prefer to sit somewhere in the middle.

[@miloa.2684]

The IMAX at AMC Lincoln Square has height speakers and is a dual laser with a full 1.43 IMAX screen and I’ll always choose that over Dolby but surprisingly the Dolby in the same AMC has better bass response than the IMAX. I went to another IMAX with laser in New Jersey and that specific IMAX has insane bass response and it’s super loud. I saw Tenet in that theater and I swear my hearing was slightly muffled after walking out kind of like after a loud concert and I’ve never experienced that in any other IMAX or Dolby. I guess it really just depends on the movie and venue because my local Dolby in Port Chester has terrible bass response almost as if a sub was turned off

[@TheNymOstwanted]

Which IMAX theater in New Jersey did you see Tenet in that had an insane bass response?

[@miloa.2684]

@@TheNymOstwanted AMC Garden State 16 located in 4000 Garden State Plaza Blvd, Paramus New Jersey

[@hiteshkaringula6798]

@@miloa.2684 I heard that’s the biggest one in NJ I usually go to the one in New Brunswick 18 and that’s solid

[@techsamurai11]

The IMAX at King of Prussia, PA which is 70mm and Laser varies their sound. If they play it loud, your life is over. You can't enjoy the movie as every sound, even a whimper, is ear-piercing and sounds like the Death Star exploding. I've had to leave the theater and beg for mercy many a time on behalf of everyone there. Other times, it's too quiet and I have to ask them to turn it up. When they get it right, it's insane. I recently watched Top Gun Maverick and they were a few decibels short. Still amazing but it would have been even more epic with a few more decibels. But if they doubled the volume, I wouldn't be able to focus or enjoy the movie...

[@avairal5936]

The fake IMAX at Palisades Mall has insane sound. The seats were vibrating and i thought i was at a concert

[@nicholassheffo5723]

Dolby Cinema has 12-bit scene-specific image and better color versus 10bit for IMAX, which is why IMAX giving up their 70mm projection for almost all their venues was a big mistake, as Roger Ebert rightly pointed out. Sounds like the IMAX you covered might have had the great SONICS DDP sound system, but they have their own 12-track system since and the theater just did not upgrade to it. IMAX can open up the picture for those few scenes, which is probably them and the studios wants you to pay at least twice to see the same movie. DTS also has a system in a few states I wish would arrive in other places with 10bit digital projection that takes their 12-track DTS:X system (their version of Atmos) and does the Pro version with 36 speakers! Hope you get to compare that to these systems at some point and maybe add a 70mm IMAX screening where available.

[@yarly3180]

Roger Ebert hasn't been able to promote old analogue tech for >9 years now 😉

[@nicholassheffo5723]

@@yarly3180 Dead or not, Ebert's point (it would be ignorant for me not to quote him when I agree with him and even thought it before he said it) is as relevant as ever, the digital IMAX keeps ending upgrades and the 70mm photochemical version, which is superior, does not. Additionally, I am not dead and strongly stand behind my tech points, digital and analog(ue). Just because something is 'old' or 'analog(ue)' does not mean it is obsolete.

[@yarly3180]

@@nicholassheffo5723 I have nothing against 70mm film, actually I'm going to a 70mm screening of 2001: A Space Odyssey next week BUT it's basically dead as in not commercially viable anymore AKA obsolete (there are few 70mm projectors left, it's not suited for mass releases). Also in time, maybe as soon as 5-10 years digital resolution will match or surpass analogue 'resolution'. Also: what makes Ebert a technical expert? He's someone from the age of television: nowadays everyone can be a movie critic thanks to the internet. Also Ebert stated In 2005, that video games are not art (check Wikipedia) which makes him a snob in my book.

[@nicholassheffo5723]

@@yarly3180 70mm is not dead, will never be dead and the few locals with projectors only make them all the more special. Films are still being shot in the format and it will always be an art form, plus even if digital somehow catches up to its resolution, it has a different aesthetic, plus film is hard copy and digital is not, with most of the biggest films being saved on photochemical film. That is why it is the arts, not just tech, so something being 'not commercially viable' means nothing. Despite Ebert's videogame opinion (it does not make him a snob not to like gaming, though he may have changed his mind had he lived, but that's another essay) the fact is Digital IMAX is inferior to Dolby Vision, the size of Digital IMAX screens are smaller and inferior to both 70mm, other large-frame formats and Dolby Vision and the experience is not as effective as classic IMAX. Also, Ebert is from the cinema age, one of the great cinematic literates and could easily separate film from TV. Anyhow, enjoy the 2001 screening and if you want to cover more of this or add to it, maybe we soul contact each other personally. Let me know if you want my e-mail, if you can handle that :0)

[@yarly3180]

@@nicholassheffo5723 thanks, maybe stating that 70mm film is dead is a bit too far-fetched: it still has some merit especially for cinephiles. I'm lucky to have a local cinema that managed to obtain a Philips DP70 projector from a private person, but it's not an easy feat for theatres to get into oldskool 70mm film projection because hardware can be hard to obtain (and prints as well sometimes). Cheers.

[@cheekster777]

Managed to find out the size of the IMAX screen at AMC Danbury 16 and it is very small. 15.1m x 8.4m. I would not wish to pay to watch a movie on a screen that size that ‘claims’ to be IMAX. This is what many people refer to as LieMax! All IMAX venues are *NOT* the same!

[@kato1kalin]

Not only that, but you have no idea about audio channels and which laser set up it is. It's crazy imax can have so many variants. I usually choose Dolby for the contrast ratio and the truer darks. The Batman in Dolby was awesome.

[@cheekster777]

@@kato1kalin - A screen that size is likely to be Xenon (either single or dual 2K) with 6-channel audio. All IMAX Laser setups (whether single or dual 4K) ‘should’ have 12-channel audio. There is the odd exception such as an old 2x2K Xenon setup having 12-channel audio but it’s not common.

[@kato1kalin]

@@cheekster777 It's like pulling teeth trying to extract that info at the theater. If the plainville amc uses xenon for imax I'll go see it in Dolby. 3 hours in those imax seats is brutal.

[@taseti4803]

Dolby cinema is equipped with subwoofers and IMAX theatres dont use subwoofers, just full range speakers around the box.

[@rubenhernandez3871]

You need to do more research.

[@taseti4803]

@@rubenhernandez3871 This information is quite known. You need to do more research.

[@chrissexton4129]

Doesn’t matter, IMAX bass rattles the theater’s foundation

[@taseti4803]

@@chrissexton4129 Duh, Ruben acted as if I was referring negatively towards IMAX theatres and I wasn't. Classic IMAX theatres use no subwoofers at all. Just full range drivers around the box, equipped with smart microphones that in real time enhances the sound. Not all IMAX auditoriums are created the same. Converted auditoriums are simply hit & miss.

[@87CREW]

Seems you went to quite an "almost" shitty IMAX theatre. "Which is kinda said that there is so much difference in IMAX theatres" in the Netherlands we have the most updated version of IMAX. With luxury seats, 4K Laser. New and improved acoustics and also the "new" 12 track sound/speakersystem. It really is a different experience in comparison with the standard/older IMAX configuration. I prefer IMAX, but fortunately we also have Dolby Cinema which I njoy alot also. 👍🏾✌🏾

[@Yoyomo124]

Dolby Cinema’s subwoofers in the seats is what really does it for me.

[@hareypujols9059]

Saw Top Gun I Dolby cinema for the first time. I live about an hour and a half drive away from one but it was definitely worth it for a movie like that

[@NinjaTrackProductions]

Nice comparison video. I'm watching it from NC. You caught my attention immediately because I'm from Norwalk. Now I'm homesick. :)

[@huskon88]

If you ever find yourself in San Francisco, I highly recommend going to the IMAX at AMC Matreon 16. It maybe the best IMAX screen and IMAX laser projector in the US. I lived in San Francisco for a year in 2021 and I miss that IMAX. The one I go to here in Tempe, AZ is really good but it isn't as great as the one is San Francisco.

[@LILGHETTI]

IMAX, The TCL Chinese theater in hollywood where I went has that 46 ft tall and 94 ft wide. It's just huge, but dolby theater behind it has the better audio

[@aperez301]

I prefer Dolby Cinema for the sound. It is more natural and more immersive. IMAX is just loud. Not to mention the seat transducers. As for comfort, it's no comparison.

[@mariaubilla1415]

I saw alien romulus in dolby cinema and omg what an experience.

[@damonappel]

It might be because the pickings in the Cleveland area are slim, but I've been to IMAX screens in Columbus and other cities, was well as the Regal (lie)MAX up here, and I've always found the audio experience to be of a consistent fantastic quality. So, this is surprising to me that so many on here are claiming Dolby is superior. Plus, IMAX screens are always the one place you can be sure that the projector bulb isn't being run well past its prime operational hours. And then you've got that height & clarity kick for the IMAX native scenes that look like-you-are-there, even if it's not a full size screen. I guess I have to try out a Dolby theater someday, but it's up against a tall order, to beat both IMAX and ScreenX.

[@kovalveli]

Now I know where all the CAM versions come from. Shane the pirate 🤣

[@Starinthesky826]

I must be lucky, my local AMC IMAX auditorium has the upgraded plush reclining seats, the same as the Dolby auditorium next to it.

[@purefites]

If it was shot in IMAX, preferably film IMAX, I definitely love going to the IMAX theater at my local Cinemark. I'm lucky to live right down the street from a theater with true IMAX screen, and when those scenes take up the whole screen, it is remarkable..but yeah, bass is louder than it should be at times it seems. Seats are at least upgraded to leather, not as good as the ones in Dolby though. But since most films aren't filmed in IMAX, I usually just go watch what I can in Dolby Cinema, because for everything that is not in IMAX I feel is better. Also using AMCs A list, there is no charge beyond the monthly fee.

[@arloMI6]

No way bro I’m in Dbury as well, thanks for info man the wife and I are going to see twisters tomorrow

[@o-o0-043]

I say Dolby for comfort and films not shot on IMAX. But if a film is shot on IMAX or aspect ratio expanded only for IMAX then I’ll always see it that way, I usually get more into the film that way like for No Way Home, Top Gun Maverick, and even Thor Love and Thunder. I’m a type of person who care more about the filmmaking so I lean more to IMAX. Also IMAX usually have the better audience reactions due to fans wanting to see it this way if that matters to you.

[@jeevangopal482]

Agreed. 95% of the time IMAX audience take the experience more seriously and are respectful to the communal experience. I feel lucky if there's no one's talking in a Dolby Cinema.

[@o-o0-043]

@@jeevangopal482 ah man I feel you, I saw No Way Home is Dolby for my 4th watch and someone was on a call mid way into the movie 💀

[@anthonysantics2631]

For me it depends on the movie I find that I enjoy the big blockbuster movies more on IMAX. But if there isn’t any scenes with the IMAX ratio I’ll just go see it in Dolby.

[@ChadAV69]

I agree except with the bass thing you said at the end. All the IMAX's around me have such sucky bass. Really disappointing. Dolby has the bass shakers in the seats which help.

[@paradox...]

Honestly it's the audio that makes me ALWAYS pick Dolby CInema

[@RudieObias]

I usually go Dolby, but if the movie is filmed entirely or partially (Nope, Interstellar, and so on) in IMAX, I go IMAX and only at the AMC Lincoln SQ in NYC. It's a real IMAX auditorium at 75.6-feet tall x 101-feet wide. Also, as for the wheelchair companion seats, I think it's OK to sit there, as long as there's not someone who requires the seat. IE a companion for someone who uses a wheelchair. If someone does require those seats, you have to move. Otherwise, it's OK to use them. However, I generally don't use them if I know the showtime is going to be sold out, like opening weekend for a big blockbuster like Avatar: The Way of Water, Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania, and so on. I think you're good!

[@ayewanrice]

your dolby seats didnt have the rumble built in? really helps with the bass feel for sure. maybe the AMC imax screen i go to isnt super updated but yeah the audio and video quality is just better in dolby. ill see the imax when the dolby is just too full and i dont want to sit next to people basically lol

[@justgaminit8033]

I’m pretty sure this guy is talking about Connecticut, so this helps me a lot thx

[@kalyanvejalla]

Most people say Dolby is better because they compare it to IMAX xenon. I actually think IMAX laser is better than Dolby.

[@dautolover]

I saw one movie in Dolby before COVID in SF. It was amazing. Sound and picture quality.

[@60phish]

My preference is Dolby been going to it for years love the sound and picture better. The imax is just a bigger screen saw matrix resurrection on it and just liked the look and feel of Dolby cinema.

[@williambrown1172]

Great video. I'm sure it is very valuable to people who do know the differences, and enjoyable for those of us who do.👍

[@TheWolfCub71]

I prefer Dolby Cinema, but for the life of me, I can’t figure out why anyone would sit so close to the screen. If you can see the pixels you are WAY to close. I will wait until I can get seats as close to the center of the theater as I can so the object based effects can be positioned around my head where they are intended. The Dolby Cinema I drive to is at the Alderwood Mall near Seattle. The seats in there have rotors tuned to the sub bass so you feel the sub shaking you without damaging your hearing (although the cinema is quite loud regardless).

[@rb89509]

Sitting up front must be a new thing. Maybe when I was in second grade I would sit that close.

[@mserlin]

Some IMAX theaters are dual laser but I still think Dolby has the best blacks. IMAX really needs to get with the times and upgrade to reclining seats. That's definitely a deal breaker unless it's a 1570 Nolan film

[@suthonlimchawalit9257]

Thanks for your opinion!

[@richardyoung8475]

I suggest that you seek out an "Imax with Laser" theater. The one in the Jordan's Furniture in Reading, Massachusetts has side and height speakers, buttkickers, and the largest (non-dome) screen I personally have ever seen.

[@RandenMontalvo]

After both IMAX 3D for me. Avatar was far more immersive and interesting in IMAX 3D.

[@jeevangopal482]

Facts, the only way to go Pandora

[@rabidbasher]

Great comparison. It seems like that I would prefer Dolby Cinema unless the movie was filmed for IMAX (like a Nolan movie). Mission Impossible was pretty awesome in Dolby.

[@onehorseopensleigh]

Dolby Cinema is impressive, but I’m always frustrated with the shallow seating angle which blocks my view of the bottom of the screen. This is especially annoying when movies have subtitles.

[@moomoopuppy508]

I've only been to a "real-sized" IMAX at Great America amusement park in Santa Clara. The movie shown was a documentary-style short film about Speed (race cars, planes, etc.)

[@EGAWEF]

Just dumping on soundtracks to make it louder to make viewers anxious. Since visual designers were praised, i hear alot of sound guys trying to get credit as well with arrogance and now we are watching good pictures with noisy sound branded by a company. So nice.

[@scottishgeekguy]

Someone else who watched it twice back to back 🤣 No imax 70mm screen near me.... So I saw it once in imax laser. Once in) non imax) 70mm... Really liked it both times. 😊

[@uldispaze7325]

Hello From Latvia. In my country is only 1 Imax Laser screen. And 1 DolbyAtoms witch is larger then Imax.

[@mtnslyr]

IMax for visual, dolby for overall experience.

[@MrUkielover]

Imagine if the best of both IMAX & Dolby were combined. Dolby Imax

[@VirtuousContract]

Been going to imax for a while but I prefer Dolby cinema … imax just feels old screen is nice but that’s about it

[@davidrivera2165]

DOLBY CINEMA is the better experience for 2D movies. IMAX 3D is great for the few 3D release

[@RedLeo-pf9yo]

I prefer Dolby cinema in a landslide because of better picture and better sound. IMAX is more like a gimmick that is cool to try out once in a blue moon.

[@flujan6824]

Nice video, I've never experienced a Dolby Cinema theater so I can't compare. We do have one IMAX theater in my town so at least I've been able to enjoy that. I don't go to the theater that often but when I do, it's always at the IMAX theater.

[@booboo4ever24]

Just saw the ending of Wakanda Forever in IMAX, picture was amazing, wish I would of caught the beginning. Saw it in Dolby last week, and the sound was AMAZING👌

[@XenogearsPS]

IN lubbock we have that building size imax lol. Feels like you're going to fall into the screen.

[@waynevia6976]

Dolby Cinema. I want the most accurate color, sharpness, contrast and brightness a nice Dolby vision picture and Dolby Atmos sound accept no substitute.

[@william1252]

Dude, those theaters are sweet.

[@chandshaik741]

IMAX 15/70 MM

[@Lou-wy1zy]

Out of all IMAX cinemas I've been in here in LA, the best is the one in universal. Dolby on the other hand is consistent almost everywhere.

[@jc2367]

This video covers much of it but i think you should do a Avatar 2 video and break down all the pros and cons ( i think it will be popular). Its not just Dolby vs IMAX but also what type of projector a IMAX uses (laser or digital), i read a forbes article indicating that single laser IMAX is the way to go. Im also curious what will give the best 3D experience between Dolby and IMAX.

[@bubba94290]

This! I have all of these questions

[@tbugtreybob]

True Dolby3D beats IMAX for avatar wotw

[@justinbeamon6624]

Unfortunately because IMAX is SOOOO inconsistent between cities, it depends but basically 97% of the time I go Dolby. Seats are always terrible in IMAX and you can hear everyone lol. Most IMAX aren't even the proper true 1.4 aspect ratio so that's just a straight skip for me. Dolby Cinema's and even most up to date AMC's in general have the nice recliners AND each row (beyond handicap) are divided where you mostly or entirely cannot see the people in front or behind you. Harder to hear them talk. So overall the Dolby is just a much better experience all around.

[@HustleHabit]

Really enjoyed watching this. Thank you.

[@tonysarohia660]

Superscreen is best quality, masssive screen and DOLBY ATMOS,👍

[@KRIL89]

Go to Plainville CT AMC. They have better seats in the regular/IMAX theaters. I’m still not sure why Danbury hasn’t upgraded their seats yet it’s odd. Plainville did it 5+ years ago at this point.

[@jin5667]

Hey congrats on hitting 90K

[@David25522]

Another great video Shane!!! Thanks!!!

[@ddouglas8161]

The AMC near me has a Dolby and an IMAX auditorium. I went to both and I do prefer dolby. Big reason is the dolby auditorium has better sound and indirect floor and aisle lighting with the recliner leather seats, also better sound whereas the Imax is using the standard jump seats and just has the standard gimcrack feeling most IMAXs do have. I took my brother to see a film in dolby and to see one in IMAX. He likes the IMAX more basically. So just personal preference between me and him.

[@NicksGotBeef]

I normally choose Dolby cinema but for Oppenheimer I had to make it to bfi imax london to see in full 70mm.

[@mr_movieguru]

IMAX Pathe Arnhem in the Netherlands is amazing, saw Dune and Top Gun Maverick, it was great!

[@jakemarsh149]

I've been doing Dolby Cinema for the last three plus years, even the boss (wife) loves Dolby Cinema. I must agree, IMAX bass is deeper than Dolby, but in my opinion Dolby overall sound is much better

[@stefanoredaelli7470]

I live in Italy and here sadly we have only IMAX . Sometime I go to a near dual laser laser IMAX, and while the video is perfect, the best I've ever seen, the audio doesn't convince me totally. Sometime it feels only loud and even the bass, there are Atmos auditoriums here with better bass

[@AdamBrackney]

Saw Oppenheimer in Dolby Cinema, it looked and sounded absolutely fantastic. I much prefer the better brightness and contrast, it's a kin to going from LCD screens to OLED, I can't ever go back. Don't get me started on the seating situation. IMAX is an abomination when it comes to seating. It's like the inverse of what's gone on with air travel😂

[@M_Sonata]

Great vlog thanks! What do you think is better to see Dune Part 2 in?

[@onlyzach1]

Wished I had a AMC that was closer to me then the one I have in the area. Plus that theater doesn't have a true IMAX ratio, so if I go there I go for the Dolby Cinema experience (but that's not often). If I'm in cities that do have a AMC theater that have both, I generally decide to see the Dolby Cinema theater (unless it's one of those huge true IMAX screens). There's one in Philly that's relatively new, and had the choice when I saw The Batman there I chose Dolby Cinema. Down here in South FL I have a Paragon Theaters that has a really nice true IMAX screen,. They just updated their Extreme theater that used to be just Dolby Atmos to have a 4K Laser projector (wished they got HDR 10+ to fight against AMC haha) and also tiled the screen 15 degrees. With big movies if they have IMAX filmed scenes, I generally go to the IMAX theater. If I really like it, I go to the Extreme theater again later (if I have nothing else to see). When I go to big movies, that's what I do. If it's just a normal movie, I go to the cheaper Cinemark in the area too.

[@craigosterberg5045]

Dolby C. The comfort and seats win out.

[@farhanmarco7827]

There are also IMAX with laser and 12 audio format which is just the best of both worlds.

[@salehkambijo1849]

Great video 👍 What is imax enhancement in projectors?

[@musicmann1967]

I notice that you're showing scenes from. Thor. it may be worth noting that I notced pixels when watching that in the Dolby Cinema room too. But I don't remember noticing them before, ever. I think it may have something to do with the movie's actual resolution or the "print" that was distributed. I've never noticed this effect before in a a Dolby room. Very weird for a Marvel movie, which I always assume will have great picture quality. .

[@wakawaka12320]

How can dolby cinemas achieve DV but consumer projectors can't?

[@jebo4jc]

That's the exact point. In a commercial theater, dolby is able to ensure the image quality will comply with the dolby vision standards. If I stick a "dolby vision" projector in my living room and project onto a white wall, there's no way to know if I'll achieve the proper brightness, contrast, etc.

[@GalvatronTypeR]

Shane, of course Dolby Cinema will beat the lie-Max in commercial theaters. But my local museum has a genuine bona fide six story tall true IMAX screen. Yes the seats are not a comfortable but the sheer size of the screen plus the pounding bass and overall sound immersion is better than Dolby Cinema. Also I did not detect a large difference in picture quality. Yes the Dolby Cinema was slightly better but the true IMAX had a brighter picture overall.

[@jeevangopal482]

Thank you!

[@justimagine2403]

IMAX Laser = 4k ... IMAX Digital = 2k ... IMAX 70mm = Film (original IMAX format and equivalent to 18k) Visually. Dolby Atmos for sound. Also headphones and sit closer to your TV.

[@paulhurt839]

All the Marvel movies since Infinity War (to my knowledge) have been framed / composed for IMAX 1.89:1 ratio. I’m sure they *try* to keep the action centred within a scope frame in the middle, but cropping the movie to 2.35:1 still messes up the composition and often omits vital details. So I highly recommend if you’re spending money to see an MCU film, go to an IMAX Digital screen. FWIW, I don’t think Thor Love And Thunder “opened up” at any point - far as I could see the entire movie was IMAX ratio, like all their recent films. Personally I’m not a fan of what Marvel are doing in this respect. I can only assume they have a deal with IMAX to promote the format. PS IMAX Digital is not intended to be “immersive” like their pure 70mm film IMAX productions. If you’re having to move your head to take it all in (and if you’re seeing individual pixels!) you’re sitting too close.

[@therealshanelee]

I definitely opened up. I mention it in the video and also took shots of it.

[@paulhurt839]

@@therealshanelee Sorry, yes, my apologies, appears you’re right…. I must have missed it, but AV Forums corroborate you there, apparently only 35 mins of the movie are in 1.89:1. Not sure why I didn’t notice. I thought Marvel had gone all IMAX all the time? Apparently not.

[@jeevangopal482]

@@paulhurt839 See that's what makes IMAX awesome imo. If the screen is large enough (80'x60') I almost never notice the aspect ratio switch. When the picture "opens up" I do notice the largeness. With 2.35 picture I don't ever feel like I'm watching a scoped image. The top and bottom of the image disappears for me. It's immersive no matter what, assuming you're sitting in the middle.

[@paulhurt839]

@@jeevangopal482 you’re kind of right, because as it turned out, Thor: Love & Thunder DID expand to fill the IMAX ratio here and there, and I didn’t notice in the theatre. Honestly tho, it feels like a bit of a gimmick. Seems far less problematic to me to choose an aspect ratio and stick to it.