About the IMAX®
The IMAX difference
Don’t just watch a movie, be a part of one. IMAX’s exclusive 1.90:1 aspect ratio is taller than a typical movie screen, revealing 26% more picture. Each IMAX film is digitally remastered to perform at its best in an IMAX theatre. Both visuals and sound are enhanced and remixed to recapture their full dynamic range.
IMAX with Laser
The Bullock IMAX Theatre is also one of only a few IMAX theaters in the world to use IMAX with Laser with a dual laser system. The proprietary 4K dual laser projection system allows for a wider display of colors and greater contrast, creating brighter whites and darker blacks than traditional film or digital projectors. It can also screen films in 1.43:1 aspect ratio, the same aspect ratio as IMAX 70mm film, with an even taller picture that takes up the entire screen.
Immersive sound
IMAX’s next-generation sound system delivers even greater power and precision, enhancing the sound through a proprietary 12-channel system including boosted sub-bass. The theater’s architecture has been customized and enhanced with soundproofing and the most effective placement of the speakers to create an optimum listening environment for every seat. Additional speakers above the audience and on both sides of the theater provide an unrivaled, visceral sound experience.
High quality 3D
When screening 3D films, one 4K Laser projector is dedicated to each eye, ensuring the highest quality 3D experience. In contrast to common polarized 3D systems, IMAX with Laser uses color filtering, offering the brightest, clearest 3D experience available.
Theater features
- 329 seats with stadium seating
- Concessions offering popcorn, assorted candies, chips and snacks, sodas, and bottled water
- Bar offering beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails (open for select feature film screenings)
- 62-foot-tall by 84-foot-wide screen
- 4k dual laser IMAX projectors
- Immersive 12-channel sound
IMAX® is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation.
IMAX Theatre FAQs
Can I take photos or film inside or around the Museum?
Personal, non-commercial, non-flash photography with small hand-held cameras is permitted in all exhibition galleries and public spaces with the exception of the IMAX Theatre and Texas Spirit Theater. Learn more about photo and video guidelines and restrictions on the Photo and Video Policy page.
Can minors visit the Museum without a chaperone?
Visitors age 15 and younger must be accompanied in the Museum and theaters by someone age 16 or older at all times.
I’m a Bullock Museum Member. Will I receive my theater discount?
Yes. Log in when making your online purchase and your Member discount will be applied to your order. Call our Membership line at (512) 936-4689 for additional assistance.
Can I reserve a seat in the IMAX Theatre or Texas Spirit Theater?
No. IMAX Theatre and Texas Spirit Theater seating is on a first-come-first-served basis.
What format does the IMAX Theatre present films in?
Movies are shown in both standard formats and the large format 1.43:1 aspect ratio with an IMAX dual laser projection system. This system provides a brighter image with better color than traditional film. Films are no longer presented in 70mm or IMAX 15/70mm.
Can I get a refund for a theater ticket purchase?
Film tickets are only valid for the purchased date and time. In rare situations when a particular film showtime is canceled, the Bullock Museum will reschedule your ticket(s) for another showtime or refund your purchase, including any ticket fees.
Does the IMAX Theatre show films in other languages?
The IMAX Theatre offers Spanish-language documentaries the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month. Check showtimes for specific films and times.
Does the IMAX Theatre use 3D glasses?
3D glasses are included with your ticket for a 3D film. 3D glasses must be returned at the end of the movie to be sanitized for re-use.
How long are trailers in the theaters?
Visitors should plan to be in their seats a few minutes before the posted start time of the film. The IMAX Theatre plays less than 10 minutes of trailers before a film. There are no trailers before Texas Spirit Theater films.
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