IMAX AND NETFLIX underexploited European countries . There are 195 IMAX screens in Europe , of which 155 are open and 40 signed in backlog and due to open in 12-18 months . Another five screens will go up in France and Switzerland as part of a new deal . Cripps explained : “ We are targeting France and Germany in particular and looking to build on our success in the UK , where we have 42 IMAX screens open now .
“ Russia is another excellent market for us with 50 theatres , although issues with the Ruble have thrown up a few challenges . Scandinavia is another promising region where IMAX has two terrific theatres – one in Copenhagen and one in Stockholm – so we will look to build on that .”
Filmmaker force The film industry itself is also an enthusiastic backer of IMAX and the big screen .
Endorsements from directors and studios provide crucial publicity for cinema over on demand , encouraging film fans to enjoy the entire visual , audio and atmospheric experience their productions can provide on the big screen .
“ IMAX has extremely good relationships with filmmakers who , ultimately , produce their movies to be watched by people at the theatre ,” Cripps said . “ JJ Abrams with Star Wars is a great example – he promoted IMAX and encouraged people to see it on our screens , going round
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