IMAX Corporation announced that the 3D action-adventure film Dragon Blade, starring Jackie Chan, John Cusack and Adrien Brody, will be digitally re-mastered in the immersive IMAX 3D format and released by Shanghai Film Group Corporation in IMAX theatres in China on February 19. Golden Network Asia Limited is handling distribution rights to the film elsewhere internationally.
In addition to Dragon Blade, IMAX will release the two-part 3D historical epic The Crossing, of which the first instalment release in China in December 2014. The Crossing: Part Two will be released in that market in May 2015.
“Our dedication to bringing unparalleled cinema to China by partnering with the best filmmakers and celebrated actors such as Jackie Chan is paramount to the vision here at IMAX,” said IMAX CEO Richard L. Gelfond. “IMAX has been at the forefront of the cinema industry in China for the last 15 years, and with a growing network and the addition of more locally produced films, we expect to help continue to grow the entertainment ecosystem in that country for all parties involved.”
Chan stated: “From CZ12 to Police Story 2013, and now Dragon Blade, it’s my honour and pleasure to work with IMAX again. The Chinese film industry is growing rapidly; and, as such, Chinese audience expectations are also increasing. That’s why IMAX’s participation in China is very important. I hope IMAX and I will continue to collaborate on future projects, and I am looking forward to see Dragon Blade on IMAX screens during Chinese New Year.”
Dragon Blade, from director Daniel Lee (White Vengeance, 14 Blades), follows a Roman general (Cusack) who, after crossing into China, befriends a former high-ranking Chinese official, played by Chan. Set in 48 B.C., Dragon Blade tells the thrilling story of heroism, friendship and betrayal, which has never before been depicted on film. Visualizer Films produced the film. Sparkle Roll Media, Huayi Brothers, Shanghai Film Group, Home Media and Entertainment, Shenzhen Tencent Video Culture Communication and China Film all served as primary investors.
The IMAX 3D release of Dragon Blade will be digitally re-mastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience with proprietary IMAX DMR (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystal-clear images, coupled with IMAX’s customised theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.