We shouldn’t oversimplify how IMAX works. IMAX was conceived as an immersive exhibition format-historically described as “Image Maximum”-with the aim of filling as much of the viewer’s field of vision as practical. The taller image is only one part of that philosophy. The larger frame, steep seating geometry, screen size, projection brightness and sound system all work together to create the sense of immersion.
That’s why simply saying, “you see more picture,” misses the point. The additional image area exists because it contributes to the immersive experience when viewed on a genuine IMAX screen. If you simply take a 1.43:1 image and display the whole frame on a conventional screen from a normal viewing distance, the effect changes completely. It no longer fills your peripheral vision, so the composition can feel unusually loose or distant. The framing was designed for an immersive presentation environment, not simply for preserving every pixel regardless of the display.
The explanation and cropping below does a total disservice to all the work put in to make a true IMAX image and the skill
Needed to make it work in other formats. You are not losing anything that is intended in no IMAX versions. Non IMAX version are all signed off and approved by the creatives.
THE ODYSSEY displays 100% of its image in IMAX 1.43:1, compared to 75.3% in Digital IMAX, 73.3% on 1.85:1 screens and just 59.8% in Scope 2.39:1. IMAX 70mm is by far the best way to experience the film.