Cinema formats explained: IMAX vs Dolby Cinema vs 4DX vs ScreenX

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Booking a film now means choosing between a list of premium formats, each with a higher ticket price than a standard screening. They are not all trying to do the same thing. Some improve the picture, some the sound, and some add motion and effects. Here is what each one actually gives you.

Standard digital

Most screenings today are digital projection on a standard screen, with surround sound. A good standard auditorium with a well-maintained projector can look excellent, and it is the format most films are mixed and graded for. If the film is a quiet drama, standard is usually all you need.

IMAX

IMAX is about scale: a very large screen, often taller than usual, a carefully designed auditorium and a powerful sound system.

Some films are shot with IMAX-certified cameras or formatted for IMAX, and parts of them open up to fill more of the screen. Look for "filmed for IMAX" or "expanded aspect ratio".
The tallest IMAX screens use a 1.43:1 shape, nearly square. Many other IMAX screens use 1.90:1, which is still taller than a standard widescreen image.
Not every IMAX auditorium is equal. Purpose-built venues can be enormous, while some are converted standard screens that are much smaller. Search for your cinema's screen size and projection type before paying extra.

Worth it for: big spectacle films, especially ones shot with IMAX cameras.

Dolby Cinema

Dolby Cinema focuses on picture quality and sound rather than screen size. It combines Dolby Vision projection, with high contrast, deep blacks and bright highlights, and Dolby Atmos, which places sound above as well as around you. Seats are usually reclining and the room is designed to be very dark. Worth it for: films with lots of dark scenes, strong colour or a detailed sound mix. Many people find it the best all-round premium format.

4DX

4DX is a theme-park style experience. The seats tilt, shake and vibrate in time with the action, and the room adds effects such as wind, water spray, fog, flashing lights and scents. The screen itself is generally a normal one. Worth it for: action films you want to treat as a ride. Not ideal if you get motion sickness, are carrying hot drinks, or want to concentrate on the story. Some people find it fun once and distracting after that.

ScreenX

ScreenX extends the picture onto the side walls of the auditorium, giving a 270-degree view during selected scenes such as chases and flights. For most of the film, only the main screen is used. Worth it for: films that were specifically prepared for it. The side images are usually less sharp than the main screen, so the centre seats work best.

70mm and other film prints

A few films are still released on actual film, most famously 70mm, in a small number of cinemas. 70mm film has a large frame and a distinctive look, and 70mm IMAX film is the largest format in commercial use. Screenings are rare, often sell out, and are popular with people who want to see a film the way the director shot it. Worth it for: when a director has made a point of shooting and releasing on film and a print is playing near you.

Other names you may see

Many cinema chains have their own premium large-format brands, with a bigger screen, upgraded sound and better seats. Quality varies widely, so check reviews of the specific auditorium rather than relying on the name.

How to choose

Find out how the film was shot. If it was made for IMAX or a specific format, that format is usually the best way to see it.
Check the actual auditorium, not just the brand.
Pick your seat. In most formats, the middle of the room about two-thirds of the way back gives the best picture and sound.
Save your money for spectacle. A conversation-driven film loses little in a good standard screen.

Which format do you think is worth the extra, and which cinema near you has the best screen? Share your experience in the comments.