Dolby Cinema is AMC’s premium format, with high-contrast Dolby Vision projection and Dolby Atmos sound.
Dolby Cinema at AMC
- Dolby Vision laser projection with deep blacks and high contrast.
- Dolby Atmos sound.
- Reclining seats.
IMAX with Laser
- Taller, larger screen and 1.90:1 or 1.43:1 aspect ratio.
- Louder, immersive sound.
Which is better
Dolby for contrast and dark scenes. IMAX for size and scale.
Price
Both cost extra.
Tip
Choose by film. IMAX shows films shot in IMAX best.
Technology differences
AMC’s Dolby Cinema pairs Dolby Vision laser projection, which offers very high contrast with deep blacks, with Dolby Atmos sound, and reclining seats. IMAX with Laser offers bigger screens and dual 4K laser projection with taller aspect ratios on some films, plus 12-channel sound.
- Dolby Vision projectors reach about 1,000 nits peak brightness for HDR in the theater versus about 48 nits (14 foot-lamberts) for standard screens.
- IMAX screens are typically bigger in height, and only films shot or remastered for IMAX fill the screen.
- Ticket premiums run about 4 to 8 USD over standard prices in many markets.
Which to pick
Choose Dolby for dark, high-contrast films and plush seating, and IMAX for large-scale action and films shot with IMAX cameras. Seat position matters more than brand: sit about two-thirds of the way back near the center. Check showtimes, as availability varies. AMC A-List and other subscription plans may include premium formats at a surcharge.
Technology differences
AMC Dolby Cinema uses dual laser projection with high contrast and Dolby Atmos sound. AMC also offers IMAX with Laser in some theaters. Dolby Cinema has reclining seats and deeper blacks.
Which to pick
Dolby suits dark films, IMAX suits large screens and certain films shot for it.
Format comparison
AMC Dolby Cinema pairs Dolby Vision, a dual laser projection system with high contrast and true black levels, with Dolby Atmos object based sound and reclining seats. AMC also has IMAX with Laser at some theaters, which uses dual 4K laser projectors, a taller screen and a 12 channel sound system.
Which to pick
Dolby Cinema usually has deeper blacks and strong contrast, and suits dark films, while IMAX Laser offers a larger and taller screen and extended aspect ratio on films shot for IMAX. Pricing is close, with premium prices of a few dollars above standard. Dolby Cinema auditoriums are smaller and have assigned seats. Prefer IMAX for IMAX shot titles and big spectacle, and Dolby for contrast and sound. Check the theater site for the formats offered at your location.
Based on data from AMC Theatres and Dolby Laboratories
