IMAX Achieves Record Global Box Office in 2025

IMAX reported a record-breaking global box office of $1.28 billion for 2025, marking a 40% increase from the previous year and surpassing its pre-pandemic high of $1.1 billion in 2019. This achievement is attributed to an expanded film slate, including local language titles and films shot with IMAX's proprietary cameras. Notable successes included the Chinese animated film *Ne Zha 2*, which grossed $166.7 million, and *Avatar: Fire and Ash*, which earned $140 million. Other significant contributors were *F1: The Movie* with $97.6 million and *Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning*, which brought in $75.8 million.

IndieWire

IMAX's domestic box office reached $449 million, a 14% increase from its previous record in 2023. Internationally, the company earned $427 million, while the Chinese market contributed $407 million, both reflecting growth over prior records. The company also achieved its highest local language box office of $405 million, a 65% increase from 2023, and captured a global market share of 3.8% from over 1,800 locations.

Hollywood Reporter

CEO Rich Gelfond described 2025 as a "transformational year" for IMAX, emphasizing the company's ability to capture a greater share of the total box office through a diverse range of releases. Looking ahead, IMAX anticipates continued growth, projecting a record $1.4 billion in global ticket receipts for 2026. Upcoming films expected to drive box office gains include *The Odyssey*, *Narnia*, *Dune Part Three*, and *The Mandalorian and Grogu*, all of which are filmed for IMAX.

Hollywood Reporter

Despite IMAX's success, there are discussions regarding the evolving nature of what constitutes an "event film." Critics question whether Hollywood fully understands audience preferences for large-screen experiences. The top films of 2025 included titles that diverged from traditional Hollywood offerings, such as *Ne Zha 2* and *Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle*, indicating a shift in audience demand towards diverse genres and international films.

IndieWire

Rich Gelfond stated, “We see no signs of slowing down given a very promising slate ahead and the consistency of our market share gains, as filmmakers, studios, and audiences worldwide continue to gravitate toward the IMAX experience.” This sentiment reflects the company's confidence in its strategy and the anticipated success of its upcoming releases.

IndieWire

• “2025 was truly a transformational year for Imax in which we leveled up our performance across our business, capturing a greater share of total box office with a wider variety of releases across an expanding global footprint,” — Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX

Hollywood Reporter

IMAX's record performance in 2025 underscores its successful adaptation to changing market dynamics and audience preferences. With a robust slate of upcoming films and a commitment to providing premium theatrical experiences, IMAX is positioned for continued growth in the evolving landscape of global cinema.

Hollywood Reporter