Throughout the years, new technologies and innovations have allowed entertainment to be displayed through various forms. Whether it be virtual reality or movie theatres, the audience can connect with artists through movies. While movies are available on various streaming platforms which can be viewed from home, movie theatres provide a unique experience. In particular, 4DX movies build a special experience where the audience interacts with characters in adventurous scenes through scent, motion and texture. In this article, we will unpack the concept of 4DX movies!
Moving Seats:
One of the main experiences in a 4DX movie is being able to move with the camera. The movements occur through motion codes, a set of instructions for specific movies. A common term used for movie experiences, such as 4DX and D-Box, is haptic technology. Haptics are a system which uses actuators to develop vibration, motion, and texture to a specific scene. These technology cues depend on the audio and visuals presented in the movie; hence, synchronizing your experience with the characters. Motors are placed under the seat while other vibration sensors may be placed behind the seat to create a dramatic shake during intense action.
Scents:
What makes 4DX special in particular is the various scents that match the visuals. For instance, there is a smell of burnt rubber for racing scenes and the smell of a lush green forest during an adventure scene. These aromas are released through timed sensors near or beneath the seats. The fumes often fill the entire theatre, though the scents may be faint depending on the movie and individual theatre maintenance. Furthermore, customized scents are used for various movies. For example, the movie Wonka had a customized chocolate scent!
Mist and Wind:
Another cool effect of 4DX is incorporating a light spray of water during scenes such as rain or rafting. For instance, in How To Train Your Dragon live action, there is a few scenes in which the dragon splashes the camera with water. The mist is generally placed in the seat in front of you where it wouldn’t hit your face directly but rather at an angle. Additionally, some theatres use snow and fog for various movies. Snow is made with a soap bubble mixture and is often complemented with wind. One of the most apparent environmental effects a theatre can offer is wind. The gusts of wind during a fast action-packed scene allow viewers to be completely immersed.
Is it Available in Calgary?
Yes. Surprisingly, Canada only has 2 theatres that have 4DX with the first theatre in Toronto and the second in Calgary! The Cineplex Scotiabank Theatre Chinook is a great place to visit with friends to truly dive into a movie. This theatre option initially became available to the public in 2019 while the theatre in Toronto opened in 2016.
Why isn’t it so popular?
While the experience can be exciting and unique, not all viewers prefer constant motion and exposure to different smells for multiple hours. Additionally, the cost of maintaining such theatres is quite high considering all the machinery required for a single theatre room. Furthermore, 4DX is designed for action-packed and horror movies. Therefore, light-hearted movies and other genres are less likely to be displayed. Some common movies displayed in 4DX include: Fast and Furious, IT, Annabelle, A Quiet Place, Mission Impossible, etc.
The entertainment industry will continue to expand its use of technology in which we could be exposed to a whole new realm of digital creation. While this article went through the summary of 4DX cinema, the only way to truly understand 4DX is to experience it yourself!