INDIANAPOLIS – The Indy 500 is anticipated to hit the big screen next fall when the Stephen Low Co. releases its new IMAX 3D motion picture project focused on the race.
The 3D film will be directed by giant-screen filmmaker Stephen Low and produced and distributed by The Stephen Low Co. in association with Ralph Hansen of Pegasus Marketing Group. Low also produced and directed the critically acclaimed 1997 IMAX film “Super Speedway,” featuring legendary IndyCar drivers Mario and Michael Andretti.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials have endorsed the venture and will consult on the content of the film and companion education outreach program, and also provide access to the world-famous racing facility for filming.
Anticipated for release in October 2011, plans call for the film to be distributed worldwide to IMAX theatres (3D, 2D and Dome).The motion picture will be filmed at the Speedway and related story locations, capturing unique 3D track action and highlight key moments in the track’s remarkable 102-year history and 100th anniversary of the first Indianapolis 500.
“This project will reach and attract new audiences to IMS and to motorsports, and create an important link to museums, science centers and schools by providing a meaningful science and technology learning experience,” said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. president and CEO. “The film will create a memorable and lasting tribute to ‘The Racing Capital of the World’ and its many contributions to society. The planned timing of its release will provide a fitting conclusion to our 100th anniversary celebrations.”
The project is to be funded by producer investment and major corporate sponsorships. Participating sponsors will benefit from worldwide brand presence on the film credits and in the content and marketing of the film, as well as through association with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indianapolis 500, the racing community and prestigious exhibiting museums and science centers worldwide.
The Stephen Low Co. is a Montreal-based producer of the IMAX Experience and leading 3D entertainment and a distributor to IMAX theaters and other giant screen theatres worldwide. Award-winning filmmaker Stephen Low is the director of more than 15 giant screen films including the just released “Legends of Flight (3D)” and “The Ultimate Wave (3D),” as well as “Across the Sea of Time (3D),” “Mark Twain’s America (3D),” “Beavers,” “Titanica,” “Fighter Pilot” and the giant screen racing classic “Super Speedway (1997),” among others.
