IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond Reveals Expansion Plans with 4 New 70mm Movies Slated for 2027
IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said in an interview that IMAX plans to expand its 70mm projection capacity, targeting about 10 additional refurbished 70mm projectors by 2027 and roughly 75 units globally. He also said at least four unannounced 70mm movies are slated for 2027. Gelfond estimated each 70mm print costs about $50,000.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
If IMAX can secure enough 70mm content and successfully expand/refurbish projector capacity, it could improve long-run utilization and premium pricing power. However, the lack of named titles and financial targets limits immediate trading impact.
Market read
Traders may view this as a medium-term strategic signal for IMAX’s large-format exhibition business, but it is not a near-term earnings or contract catalyst.
What to watch
The article provides a per-print cost estimate but no capex funding plan, utilization assumptions, or confirmed studio commitments for the 2027 slate.
Background
The piece frames IMAX’s 70mm format as a central strategic pillar, citing sold-out runs and a CEO interview roadmap.
Ticker impact
IMAX CEO says the company plans to add refurbished 70mm projectors and has at least four unannounced 70mm movies slated for 2027.
Near-term impact likely limited because titles are unannounced and timing is 2027, but it can improve medium-term sentiment around 70mm strategy and capacity expansion.
This is a fresh primary CEO roadmap statement with specific operational targets (projector count increase) and a stated slate count for 2027, but it lacks financial guidance, named film titles, and near-term execution details.
Market effects
Supports the large-format exhibition theme, potentially benefiting IMAX’s competitive positioning versus alternative premium formats.
Highlights expansion intent into India and China, implying future screen demand outside the US.
If executed, increased 70mm capacity could raise global availability of premium film projection and influence studio release strategies.
Counterpoint
Unannounced 70mm titles and projector refurbishment plans may not translate into near-term cash flow, and costs/logistics could pressure margins.
Key entities
- public_companyIMAX
CEO roadmap for 70mm capacity expansion and a stated count of unannounced 70mm movies for 2027.




