The Space Cinema – the Italian branch of Vue – announces the launch of “EPIC,” the new Premium Large Format cinematic experience
The new format will make Vue the leading European operator of Premium Large Format screens equipped with HDR by Barco technology
Vue, the largest private cinema operator in Europe, and market leader in the United Kingdom and Italy*, where it operates as The Space Cinema, announces the official launch of EPIC, the new Premium Large Format (PLF) cinematic experience, designed to redefine in-cinema viewing standards.
EPIC combines the most advanced technologies available on the market, thanks to the new HDR by Barco laser projection – featuring a patented Lightsteering system – and immersive Dolby Atmos audio, to offer audiences an unprecedented, high-level experience in Europe. To develop this new format, Vue has strengthened its partnership with Barco, a global leader in cinema projection technology, and begun the installation of the HDR system in its cinemas. The plan involves the opening of at least 11 EPIC screens in the United Kingdom, Italy, and the Netherlands by 2025, and then reaching over 50 EPIC screens in Europe by the end of 2027. The HDR by Barco system combines 4K projection with exclusive light control, capable of selectively directing brightness onto the screen. The result? Incredibly sharp images, deep blacks, bright whites, and an even wider color gamut, up to six times brighter than traditional digital cinema. Every EPIC screen will also be equipped with the Dolby Atmos system, featuring up to 64 audio channels, including a ceiling speaker system, for precise and captivating three-dimensional sound. The EPIC screens will be the largest screens within each Vue cinema and will represent the ultimate viewing experience, ideal not only for major blockbusters but also for arthouse cinema and live events – such as concerts or Metropolitan Opera live broadcasts. The first EPIC screen will be inaugurated at the end of July in the new Vue multiplex in Nottingham, in the United Kingdom, followed this summer by The Space Cinema in Rozzano.
Tim Richards, Founder and CEO of Vue, states: “We have extensively tested various premium solutions, and today we are ready to offer our audience something truly unique. EPIC is born from the combination of the best technologies on the market: HDR by Barco for an extraordinary image, and Dolby Atmos for breathtaking sound. Our goal is to bring excellence to the big screen, across Europe.”
Gerwin Damberg, EVP Cinema at Barco, adds: “We are thrilled to extend our collaboration with Vue. Bringing our HDR technology to their screens means giving shape to a shared idea: making cinema an increasingly powerful, exciting, and immersive experience.”
Vue thus continues its journey of innovation, with constant investment in the evolution of the cinematic experience. Recent projects also include “Vue Your Way”, a new format for foyer areas currently being piloted in the United Kingdom, which allows spectators to purchase snacks and drinks via self-service, accessing the screen directly via a digital ticket and automatic turnstiles.
Watch the EPIC x Barco HDR launch trailer: https://youtu.be/w6dtjXCND5E
For further information: Spencer & Lewis for The Space Cinema.
*by market share
