IMAX Corporation Soars with Stellar $28 Million Opening for "Project Hail Mary"

On March 23, 2026, IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) unveiled remarkable box office results for the much-anticipated release of Amazon/MGM’s “Project Hail Mary.” The film generated a staggering $28 million globally over its opening weekend, showcasing the enduring appeal of the IMAX format and its effectiveness as a launch platform for blockbuster films.

The film's domestic performance was equally impressive, raking in $16.4 million, which accounted for an astounding 20% of the film’s total North American debut—despite being shown on just 1% of the screens in the market. This notable achievement marks the largest opening weekend for an original title in IMAX since last year's “F1®: The Movie.” Additionally, “Project Hail Mary” joins an elite group of films, being one of only twelve titles to ever achieve 20% or more of the North American opening weekend box office through the IMAX platform.

Internationally, the film contributed an additional $11.2 million, with IMAX capturing significant market share in key regions. Notably, IMAX accounted for 34% of the film’s debut in China, demonstrating the global appetite for cinematic experiences that leverage IMAX's cutting-edge technology.

Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX, praised the film and its marketing campaign, stating, “’Project Hail Mary’ is an excellent film for which Amazon/MGM ran a brilliant campaign, leaning heavily on the power of IMAX as a global launch platform across production, marketing, and distribution.” He highlighted the longstanding connection between IMAX and space-themed films, noting that the film’s stunning portrayal of the cosmos is best experienced in the IMAX format.

IMAX's dedication to enhancing the viewer experience is evident in the production of “Project Hail Mary.” The film was shot using IMAX-certified digital cameras, with nearly two hours presented in an IMAX-exclusive expanded aspect ratio. Filmmakers Chris Miller and Phil Lord collaborated closely with IMAX throughout the production process, from initial camera tests to post-production, ensuring that the film was fully optimized for The IMAX Experience.

Ahead of its wide global release, “Project Hail Mary” debuted in IMAX 70mm film locations, generating $2 million to date, which translates to an impressive average of $122,000 per screen. With strong audience demand, these locations will continue to showcase the film in the coming weeks, further solidifying the IMAX format's dominance in delivering immersive cinematic experiences.

“Project Hail Mary” is only the beginning of a robust slate of films for IMAX this summer. The IMAX network is preparing for the upcoming release of Universal Pictures/Illumination’s “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” in early April, followed by highly anticipated titles such as Disney/Lucasfilm’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” and Universal’s “The Odyssey,” which is notable for being the first feature film shot entirely with IMAX film cameras.

IMAX Corporation continues to demonstrate its leadership in the entertainment technology sector, delivering unparalleled cinematic experiences through its proprietary software, architecture, and projection systems. With 1,864 systems operating across 91 countries and territories as of December 31, 2025, IMAX remains a powerful platform for filmmakers and studios to connect with audiences on a grand scale. The impressive opening weekend of “Project Hail Mary” not only underscores the company’s success but also sets the stage for an exciting year ahead in film.