THE RETURN OF 70MM ROADSHOWS—CURATED, EVENTIZED CINEMA
For decades, 70mm film has been distinguished by its superior visual richness compared to standard 35mm analog film. The increased size of 70mm film stock allows images to display exceptional resolution, clarity, and depth—a quality sought after by filmmakers when creating sweeping epics like Lawrence of Arabia and 2001: A Space Odyssey. These legacy films transported audiences into expansive, finely detailed universes that other formats simply couldn’t reproduce. Cinemas showing 70mm productions became more than just movie venues; they transformed into gathering places where communities reveled in a collective sense of wonder. The communal aspect left audiences captivated, forging powerful, lasting memories through the shared experience of large-format cinema.
Historically, the concept of the roadshow transformed a night at the movies into an exclusive, special event. Roadshow screenings offered reserved seating, playbills, scheduled intermissions, and an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation, making every film debut feel significant. In contrast to on-demand digital viewing habits, which prioritize convenience, 70mm roadshows reintroduce a sense of ceremony and distinctive occasion to the art of moviegoing. Modern audiences, seeking more meaningful cultural experiences, are rediscovering the value of eventized cinema that actively engages viewers with the artistry of film. At these curated events, participation goes beyond simply watching a movie—attendees are immersed in a one-of-a-kind, shared cinematic journey.
WHAT FUELS THE RESURGENCE OF 70MM MOVIE ROADSHOWS
You might be wondering why 70mm roadshows are making such a strong comeback. One major reason is that filmgoers crave immersive cinematic experiences that digital formats rarely deliver. There’s a resurgence of nostalgia for the grandeur of film’s golden age, paired with a renewed appreciation for the distinctive aesthetics of analog film. At the same time, advances in projection and preservation technology now make it more practical for theaters to exhibit 70mm features at the fidelity they deserve. It’s a perfect blend: nostalgic longing, technical readiness, and contemporary demand come together to revive both classic and modern 70mm titles.
Filmmakers and studios recognize this renewed interest and are investing in meticulously curated screenings that engage you beyond the film itself. These events often feature:
– Special guest appearances or Q&A sessions
– Themed merchandise exclusive to that screening
– Interactive pre-show displays showcasing the filmmaking process
These enhancements transform what could be a simple movie night into a far richer and more layered event. However, showing 70mm films still requires specialized projection equipment and technical know-how, making each screening a logistical feat for many theaters. Even with these challenges, the enthusiastic response to recent 70mm blockbusters like Dunkirk and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood demonstrates that the public’s appetite for curated, premium cinema remains strong.
IMPACT ON MODERN FILMMAKING AND PRODUCTION
The growing excitement for 70mm screenings is inspiring both established and emerging filmmakers to explore large-format techniques in new and inventive ways. Directors and cinematographers are prioritizing intricate composition, greater depth of field, and analog texture to enhance the visual storytelling on screen. As a result, production teams find themselves reexamining how tactile set design and in-camera artistry can contribute to a movie’s emotional resonance. You can see this influence in film schools and indie productions, where young creators are experimenting with hybrid workflows that merge analog film processes with digital editing and post-production. This fusion is not only preserving traditions but also propelling the craft forward by demonstrating how analog and digital can coexist and inspire fresh creative perspectives.
THE FUTURE OF CURATED, LARGE-FORMAT CINEMA
Looking ahead, you can expect the momentum behind curated roadshows and 70mm screenings to grow as filmmakers and exhibitors continue pushing boundaries. Many film festivals and independent cinemas are embracing eventized formats, using them as a platform to highlight rare archival prints and debut new projects made for large formats. The result is a renewed respect for the communal art of moviegoing, where audiences celebrate both the nostalgia and innovation that 70mm screenings bring. As this movement expands, cinema’s ability to entertain, inspire, and unite viewers will become even more central to its cultural value. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity ensures that large-format, eventized screenings will captivate generations to come.
