IMAX is the most notable Premium Large Format movie theater auditorium that can be found today, but that may be changing soon thanks to an all-new compeтιтor that is looking to face off against IMAX. Since the inception of IMAX in the 1970s, the format has reigned supreme, with its high-quality cameras and large theater screens offering top of the line movie experiences.

According to Variety, European movie theater chain Vue is looking to shake things up by introducing its own PLF named Epic. Epic will feature Dolby Atmos sound, HDR by Barco laser projection, and according to Vue CEO Tim Richards, the “very latest and best possible sight and sound technology available.”

The report states that the first 11 Epic theaters will open this year across the U.K., Italy, and the Netherlands, and that 50 more Epic screens will open across the rest of Vue’s European markets by the end of 2027. The first Epic screen is slated to open at the end of July, in the U.K. city of Nottingham.

What Vue’s Epic Launch Means For IMAX

Which PLF Chain Will Win?

Vue clearly has a mᴀssive expansion plan mapped out for Epic, with it set to have over 60 Epic screens by the end of 2027. This means that Vue is quickly catching up to IMAX, which currently has over 200 screens. IMAX is the biggest Premium Large Format chain, but Epic may not be far behind after a few more years.

While Epic is exciting, it will have trouble living up to the IMAX brand. Everyday consumers ᴀssociate IMAX with big screens, and Epic’s youth means that it doesn’t have that same connotation yet. Epic will have to do a lot of work to catch up, but if the quality is good, it is entirely possible that the Vue chain could be a thorn in IMAX’s side.

Our Take On Epic’s Compeтιтion With IMAX

It Is Great For Movie-Goers

Although IMAX probably isn’t particularly happy about Epic’s launch, it is great news for movie fans regardless. Although big cities are full of IMAX screens, many areas don’t have access to PLF theaters. Epic’s launch means that PLF theaters will be easier to access for more people, making the movie-going experience even better.

Theaters have struggled in recent years to compete with streaming, with many chains realizing that they have to do bigger and better things to get people off their couches. Epic could be Vue’s attempt to do this, making Vue theaters more of an experience than just another way to watch a movie. However, it is still impossible to tell who will win between Epic and IMAX.