Digital cinema technology developer Barco will be the exclusive supplier of digital cinema projectors for US theatre chain Landmark Theatres.
With studios imminently closing the door on film print production and enrollment in most Virtual Print Fee (VPF) programs ending this year, Landmark recognised it was time to complete its digital cinema deployment.
The deal will see the Belgium-based company convert 202 screens located in 41 sites across the US, providing complete installation, maintenance and support services.
Devices are set to include both 2K and 4K models in various sizes – from the compact DP2K-12C for screens up to 39ft to the DP4K-23B for screens up to 75ft.
The theatre chain’s history in digital cinema began in 2005, when it became the first exhibitor in the U.S. to adapt 4K projection for cinema. Later, its site in Dallas, Texas, was the first cinema to present a live 3D simulcast by satellite of a sporting event – a Dallas Mavericks basketball game.
“Barco simply offers the brightest images and best performance of any digital cinema projector on the market,” commented Bryan Linington, VP technology for Landmark Theatres. “The fact that we can essentially rebuild the projector in the booth is a true testament to its modularity, which translates into hard dollar savings when you consider the easy upgrade to 4K as well as economical parts and outstanding service.”
Landmark Theatres CEO Ted Mundorff, stated: “Our theatres cater to an audience with highly discerning tastes, and we’ve earned their loyalty by consistently putting the best images on screen – whether it’s a new theatrical release or a treasured classic.”
“By partnering with Barco, we’re confident that we can maintain our reputation for cinema excellence as we adapt their migration path to laser and high frame rates, while also benefitting from a great ROI,” finished. Mundorff.
“We are honored to build this tremendous association with Landmark Theatres for whom we have the utmost respect as a high quality exhibitor,” commented Patrick Lee, VP digital for Barco North America. “We are pleased to play a small role in ensuring that independent movie houses continue to thrive and do what they do so well: offer a diverse, sophisticated and unique array of cinema entertainment.”
