New ABC Marvel drama to launch on IMAX

US broadcast network ABC has commissioned Marvel Television to produce a live-action comic-inspired drama that will debut in IMAX theatres before the small screen.

Marvel’s the Inhumans will follow a race of superhumans with unique powers Stan Lee created, exploring the “never-told-before epic adventure of Black Bolt and the royal family”.

Under terms of an agreement between IMAX Corp., Marvel and Disney-ABC Television Group, a version of the first two episodes will launch worldwide in IMAX cinemas for two weeks in September 2017.

The series will then debut on the ABC broadcast network with additional content.

The deal marks the first time immersive cinema giant IMAX has been involved with financing a TV pilot andseries.

“This unprecedented alliance represents a bold, innovative approach to launching great TV content for a worldwide audience,” said Ben Sherwood, co-chairman, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney-ABC Television Group. “It highlights Disney-ABC’s unrelenting commitment to finding new and creative ways to showcasing our very best programming and increasing global engagement and reach.”

Marvel TV will produce The Inhumans in conjunction with ABC Studios.

“This first-of-its-kind multi-platform production, distribution and marketing agreement brings together Marvel Television’s unique brand of entertainment, ABC’s unparalleled audience and IMAX’s brand and global fanboy demographic,” said IMAX CEO, Rich Gelfond.

“It also takes our decades-long relationship with The Walt Disney Company to a whole new level, jointly breaking new ground in the industry. We are confident our exhibition partners will be excited to work with us on this innovative launch of a series across the IMAX network.”