Are you wondering how big is a movie theater screen? If yes, you’ve landed on the right page.
A movie theater screen typically ranges from 70 feet to 40 feet wide. It depends on factors like movie theater size, aspect ratio, and viewing distance.
In addition, some movie theaters also have around 100 feet of screen size, while smaller theaters have around 30 feet of screen size.
Let’s dive deep into this topic and learn about movie theater screen sizes & dimensions.
How Big is a Movie Theater Screen?
It depends on various factors, which are listed below.
Movie Theater Screen Dimensions
Unlike home theater projection screens, movie theater screen dimensions are measured in feet or meters rather than inches.
As mentioned above, movie theater screens have around 70 to 40 feet of width. Suppose a screen has 70 feet width with a 2.39:1 aspect ratio. In that case, the height is approximately 30 feet (70÷2.39).
Similarly, with a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, a 70 feet screen has approx 38 feet in height.
Depending on the movie theater, the screen size varies significantly.
A multiplex with 8-14 screens will have a smaller screen than a 3-6 screen multiplex. Similarly, a standalone movie theater will have a bigger screen size than a multiplex.
Within a multiplex, the screen size also differs for various types of auditoriums.
For example, a premium auditorium with limited luxury seats (recliners) will have a smaller screen size than a general auditorium.
Whereas a standalone or independent movie theater will have a bigger movie theater screen dimension due to a bigger auditorium.
AMC Movie Theaters Screen Size
According to an unofficial spreadsheet, here’s the screen size and aspect ratio of various AMC Theaters in the USA.
| Movie Theater | Screen Size (Width) | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| AMC Brentwood 14 | 60 feet | 1.85:1 |
| AMC Concord Mills 24 | 56 feet | 2.39:1 |
| AMC Council Bluffs 17 | 42 feet | 1.85:1 |
| AMC Danbury 16 | 56 feet | 2.39:1 |
| AMC Deer Valley 17 | 40 feet | 1.85:1 |
| AMC Southpoint 17 | 66 feet | 1.85:1 |
| AMC Northpark 15 | 70 feet | 1.85:1 |
What affects the Average Movie Theater Screen Size?
The movie theater size and the aspect ratio majorly affects the size of a movie theater screen.
2.39:1 and 1.85:1 are the two most common aspect ratios among movie theaters. The 1.85:1 is similar to the 16:9 aspect ratio, although slightly wider.
On the other hand, 2.39:1 is the widest aspect ratio currently in use in modern cinema. It is also known as an anamorphic widescreen format. Popular movies like Donnie Darko, 10 Cloverfield Lane, Blade Runner 2047, etc., are shot in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio.
Secondly, as mentioned above, the movie theater type (multiplex or standalone) can also hamper the screen size dimensions.
How Big is an IMAX Movie Theater Screen?
IMAX screens are taller than other movie theater screens. It’s possible because IMAX movie theater screens have a 1.90:1 aspect ratio.
Similar to other auditorium screens, the IMAX movie theater screen dimensions differ massively.
In the USA alone, the IMAX Theater screen size ranges from a whopping 29.8 meters width at max, while the minimum screen width is 13.7 meters.
Moreover, IMAX technology is also used in educational institutes with a max size of up to 27 meters in width.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Drive-in Movie Theater Screen Size?
A Drive-in Movie Theater Screen Size is around 30 to 100 feet wide. The true size depends on the size of the movie theater. For an approximately 50 cars setup, a 24 feet screen size is sufficient. On the other hand, you’ll need a 100 feet screen for a 500 cars setup.
How Many Inches Are Movie Theater Screens?
A movie theater size is around 700 to 1500 inches if measured diagonally. As mentioned above, a movie theater screen size is measured in feet or meters because it’s convenient.
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you clear your doubt about how big is a movie theater screen?
To summarize the article, IMAX movie theater screens are generally bigger and taller than conventional movie theater screens.
If you have any further questions or any points that we’ve missed. Please don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below.
Also Read:
- How Much Does a Movie Theater Projector Cost?
- 7 Best Movies that are Incredible to Watch on a Projector
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