What is the story about?
Spider-Man: Brand New Day is finally making its long-awaited IMAX debut, nearly a week after swinging into cinemas worldwide. The delayed rollout has sparked
curiosity among fans, especially since Marvel blockbusters typically launch on premium screens from day one. Despite the unusual release strategy, the Tom Holland-led superhero adventure has enjoyed a phenomenal start at the global box office, grossing hundreds of millions within its opening weekend. Now, with IMAX screenings set to begin, audiences can experience Peter Parker's latest adventure on the biggest screens available. So, why did Brand New Day have to wait for its IMAX release?
Why Spider-Man Brand New Day releasing in IMAX a week late?
Spider-Man: Brand New Day is finally arriving in IMAX theatres in the U.S. on August 7, nearly a week after its worldwide theatrical debut. The delayed rollout left many fans puzzled, as Marvel blockbusters typically open simultaneously in standard and premium formats.
The reason has to do with IMAX's existing exhibition schedule. Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey had secured an exclusive run across IMAX's domestic network for three weekends, meaning Brand New Day was unable to access those premium screens during its opening days. With that exclusive window now ending, Sony and Marvel's latest Spider-Man film can finally expand into IMAX locations. However, The Odyssey isn't disappearing from IMAX entirely. The film will continue screening across select digital IMAX locations and will retain all 41 IMAX 70mm film venues worldwide.
Spider-Man scores massive global success without IMAX
Despite missing IMAX during its domestic launch, Tom Holland's Spider-Man: Brand New Day did not face any trouble at the global box office. Starring Tom Holland as Peter Parker, the film has already grossed $927 million worldwide, including $355 million in North America and $572 million internationally.
IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond said the company expects the film to benefit from its premium-format rollout, noting that Spider-Man remains one of the biggest franchises in IMAX history. With the premium release now underway, IMAX is hoping to drive both new audiences and repeat viewings for the latest Marvel blockbuster.
Indian fans still need to wait for IMAX experience
The IMAX rollout is currently limited to select international markets, with India still missing out on the premium format. Sony Pictures India has announced that Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be available in formats including 2D, 3D, 4DX 3D, ScreenX, Dolby Cinema, ICE 3D, MX4D, P[XL], and BIGPIX, but not IMAX.
