‘Michael Jordan to the Max’ Celebrates 20th Anniversary With Special Return To IMAX Theaters On Oct. 9
Celebrating 20 years since its original debut, Michael Jordan to the Max will return to select IMAX theatres starting October 9, 2020, for a limited time only. The 45-minute giant-screen portrait of basketball superstar Michael Jordan provides a nostalgic look back at this larger-than-life hero as he led the Chicago Bulls to his final NBA Championship in this timeless tale of triumph. Tickets will go on sale Tuesday, October 6, 2020. For more information please visit www.imax.com.
Originally shot with IMAX 15perf / 70mm film cameras, Michael Jordan to the Max has been retrieved from the archives and converted into a digital format with proprietary IMAX DMR® (Digital Media Re-Mastering) technology for the first time ever, resulting in a pristine presentation that can now be seen in IMAX theatres. The crystal-clear images, coupled with IMAX’s customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are there in a courtside seat next to Jordan.
Following Jordan’s final championship run with the Chicago Bulls, the film is narrated by Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix) and uses the incredible visual and sound capabilities of the IMAX motion-picture format to take viewers on-court with Jordan as he demonstrates his ability to defy gravity and overcome adversity. The film chronicles the 1998 NBA playoffs, alongside footage featuring Jordan and those closest to him, as they provide an intimate look into the triumphs and adversities that have shaped him as an athlete and an individual.
Michael Jordan to the Max also features a jaw-dropping special-effects sequence in which Jordan’s trademark soaring slam-dunk is captured. Created using the “bullet-time technology” developed for The Matrix, the result is a dramatic sequence in which giant-screen viewers experience the spectacle of Jordan’s gravity-defying leap.
“On this 20th anniversary of the original release of Michael Jordan to the Max, we are so excited to once again share the story of Michael Jordan and the Bulls’ last playoff run with fans,” said co-director Jim Stern. “This film brings fans courtside as only IMAX can do. The IMAX Experience is the next best thing to being at the game—a feeling many are missing this year, myself included. We invite fans new and old to feel the on-court action, sound and excitement of reliving Michael Jordan’s triumphant moments in this fully remastered, historic NBA championship journey.”
Michael Jordan to the Max is a production of Giant Screen Films, James D. Stern Productions and NBA Entertainment. The film was directed by Jim Stern and Don Kempf; produced by Don Kempf, Steve Kempf and Jim Stern; and executive produced by David Falk, Curtis Polk, Adam Silver and Greg Winik.