Pioneering the IMAX Era: The First Films That Shaped the Format

The history of IMAX begins with a series of experimental and groundbreaking films that aimed to revolutionize large screen cinema. One of the most significant milestones in this evolution was the debut of the first IMAX film, which marked a shift in cinematic experiences. This article delves into the origins of the IMAX format and the two pioneering films that set its stage.

The Birth of IMAX at Osaka World Expo 1970

The IMAX format was created in 1970 during the Osaka World Expo in Osaka, Japan. This innovative format was the brainchild of a team of Canadian filmmakers. Among the films that were showcased at this Expo, TIGER CHILD stands out as the first IMAX film, marking a new era in large screen cinema.

A Kaleidoscopic Exploration of Human Condition

TIGER CHILD, directed by Donald Brittain and produced by Roman Kroitor and Ichia Ichikawa, was a unique documentary that offered a kaleidoscopic exploration of the human condition. Unlike conventional films, TIGER CHILD had no specific narrative structure. It was presented in a loop and showed a sequence of images from various locations around the world. Viewers entered a specially constructed theatre and experienced the film as they moved through the space on a slow conveyor. The film was only 17 minutes long, yet its impact was profound.

Technical Innovations and Challenges

TIGER CHILD was produced using a prototype IMAX camera that could capture 15 perforations per frame, in contrast to the standard 5 perforations in widescreen 70mm film. This camera required modified Hasselblad lenses. However, due to technical and shipping challenges, it could only shoot for up to 13 seconds at a time. As a result, the filmmakers shot additional footage with traditional 70mm, 65mm, and 35mm cameras. This approach led to the incorporation of split screen sequences in the final film.

A Remarkable Reflection of the Late Sixties

During a restoration of the film in 2002, I had the opportunity to see it again in Toronto. The experience was profoundly moving, capturing the essence of the late 1960s. TIGER CHILD felt like a snapshot of the era, reminiscent of the Family of Man exhibition and book. The raw and direct nature of the film's cinematography stood out, especially during the split screen sequences. Every time the screen was filled with a 1570 image, the full impact of the cinematography was felt. In my opinion, TIGER CHILD is a true masterpiece.

The Second IMAX Film: NORTH OF SUPERIOR

While TIGER CHILD set the stage for the IMAX format, the second IMAX film, NORTH OF SUPERIOR, officially marked the beginning of the complete 1570 production era. This 20-minute film, directed by Graeme Ferguson and edited by the legendary large format filmmaker Toni Myers, remains one of the most impressive IMAX movies ever made.

A Settling of the Template

NORTH OF SUPERIOR followed a different approach compared to TIGER CHILD. It provided a more concrete narrative and setting while maintaining the high standards of large screen imagery. These two films couldn't be more different in terms of style and content, yet both were crucial in shaping the future of IMAX documentary films. They proved that the format could be used in various ways to tell compelling stories, setting the template for what we now associate with IMAX.

The Legacy of Pioneering Films

The legacy of TIGER CHILD and NORTH OF SUPERIOR cannot be overstated. They not only paved the way for future IMAX productions but also redefined the possibilities of large screen cinema. These pioneering films continue to inspire and influence filmmakers today, pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling and immersive experiences. As the IMAX format continues to evolve, the early innovations and contributions from these two groundbreaking films remain as relevant and impressive as ever.