ScreenX Movie Format Expands to 83 New U.S. Theaters

Going to the movies is about to feel a lot more immersive for millions of Americans.

ScreenX, a cutting-edge theater format that extends movies onto side walls for a wraparound experience, is expanding rapidly across the United States. AMC Theatres announced plans to add 25 new ScreenX auditoriums, while Cinemark is installing 18 more locations through 2026.

The technology comes from South Korean entertainment giant CJ CGV, which has perfected the format in Asian markets over recent years. Unlike traditional movie screens that sit flat in front of you, ScreenX creates a 270-degree viewing environment by projecting footage onto the left and right walls of the theater.

The expansion marks a significant shift for American moviegoers. While ScreenX has remained relatively niche in Western markets until now, the recent deals with major theater chains mean the format will soon be available in communities nationwide.

Journalist Sam Byford recently experienced ScreenX firsthand at a premium Tokyo theater while watching "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple." Despite initial skepticism about how the format would handle carefully composed cinematography, he found himself curious about the technology's potential.

The format represents part of a broader trend of theaters investing in premium experiences to bring audiences back. ScreenX joins other immersive technologies like 4DX, IMAX, and Dolby Cinema in offering moviegoers something they can't get at home.

The Ripple Effect

The ScreenX expansion could reshape how filmmakers think about storytelling. As more theaters adopt the format, directors and cinematographers may begin creating scenes specifically designed to take advantage of the peripheral viewing space.

The technology also gives local theaters a competitive edge in an era of streaming dominance. By offering experiences that go beyond what's possible on a home television, theaters can attract audiences looking for truly special nights out.

For communities getting new ScreenX locations, it means access to cutting-edge entertainment technology without traveling to major metropolitan areas. The format democratizes premium movie experiences, bringing them to neighborhoods that might not typically see the latest innovations first.

As theaters continue investing in these immersive technologies, they're betting on something timeless: people want to gather together for shared experiences that feel magical and different from everyday life.