Like an early gift from the North Pole, Corey Cobb found a big surprise in a relatively small box. The Tennessee Aquarium’s IMAX senior operator received a digital cinema package containing an IMAX with Laser remaster of the animated holiday classic “The Polar Express 3D.”
“I’m excited about the new version.” Cobb says. “It looks much better than the film print we’ve shown over the years.”
Compared to the 600-pound spools of film Cobb used to work with when showing the movie, the new digital cinema package almost fits into his shirt pocket. Although much smaller in size, the visual impact is stunning, he says.
“The film is much brighter and the snow scenes look fantastic.”
The sound system installed at the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater earlier this year as a companion upgrade to the 4K laser projectors improve the experience even more, he adds.
“The chugging of the locomotive and the music have always been important parts to seeing this movie in a giant screen theater like ours,” he explains. “And this year, the sounds are even better.”
Based on the children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, “The Polar Express 3D” takes audiences on a train ride to the North Pole. Viewers follow a doubting young boy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.
Screenings of the remastered “Polar Express 3D” will continue through Christmas Eve.