Christopher Nolan’s upcoming biopic, “Oppenheimer,” explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the creator of the atomic bomb.
In a new behind-the-scenes featurette, Nolan and his team discuss their decision to shoot the film entirely in IMAX format and how it enhances the storytelling experience. The video also highlights the creation of new technology to film sections of the movie in IMAX black-and-white analog photography.
IMAX Format: Elevating the Cinematic Experience for Oppenheimer
Nolan’s explains his choice to shoot Oppenheimer in IMAX, stating that the film aims to transport viewers into the extraordinary world of its protagonist. IMAX’s exclusive 1.90:1 aspect ratio provides approximately 26% more image, offering a more immersive and spectacular theatrical experience.
IMAX’s Versatility: From Action to Intimacy in Oppenheimer
Director of photography Hoyte Van Hoytema emphasizes that IMAX is not limited to action-packed scenes but can also be an intimate format. In “Oppenheimer,” the human face becomes a landscape to be explored, showcasing its depth and complexity through the lens of IMAX.
Pioneering Technology for IMAX Black-and-White Analog Photography Inventing a New Medium
To capture the essence of Oppenheimer’s story, Nolan and his team had to develop new technology for filming sections of the movie in IMAX black-and-white analog photography. As no black-and-white film existed in the market, the crew took on the challenge of inventing it themselves, showcasing their commitment to authenticity.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” takes advantage of the immersive IMAX format to tell the captivating story of J. Robert Oppenheimer. By embracing IMAX’s unique aspect ratio and creating new technology for IMAX black-and-white analog photography, the film aims to provide viewers with a deeply immersive and intimate cinematic experience.
As the first biopic to be shot entirely in IMAX, “Oppenheimer” pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling and offers audiences a new level of immersion that other formats cannot match.