Barco and Vue Expand Cinematic Horizons in Germany
In a groundbreaking move for the cinema industry, Barco, a leading provider of laser technology, has teamed up with Vue, Europe’s largest privately-owned cinema operator. Together, they announced the expansion of the EPIC experience into Germany, set to revolutionize how audiences enjoy films.
This exciting initiative commenced with the opening of five CinemaxX theaters in key locations, including Stuttgart, Berlin, and Magdeburg. Additional theaters in Freiburg and Bielefeld are scheduled to open shortly. The rollout comes on the one-year anniversary of the EPIC experience, which utilizes Barco’s cutting-edge HDR technology to deliver a more vivid and immersive audiovisual experience for cinema-goers.
Experience the Future of Film
EPIC promises patrons not just a movie, but a fully immersive cinematic adventure. Each auditorium outfitted with EPIC features state-of-the-art sound systems that envelop the audience from all sides and above, accompanied by the largest screens in the cinema, ensuring every detail of the film is breathtakingly displayed.
Frank Thomsen, Managing Director of CinemaxX Germany and Vue International, outlined the vision behind EPIC, saying, "With EPIC, we are setting new standards in picture quality, sound, and immersion. We are redefining the way audiences experience films, making the cinema of tomorrow a reality today."
The expansion of EPIC is part of a broader strategy to enhance the cinematic experience. Barco's HDR technology enables projectors to produce highlights that are six times brighter than standard projection while simultaneously capturing rich detail in shadowy areas. This results in a stunning depth and clarity, appealing to filmmakers and audiences alike.
Continued Commitment to Innovation
This latest chapter for Barco and Vue is not just limited to the new EPIC format. The collaboration aims to modernize the overall fleet of CinemaxX theaters with the installation of over 1,000 Barco laser projectors. This initiative will apply to both the premium EPIC auditoriums and standard theaters by 2029. Such upgrades represent a significant investment in providing high-quality cinematic experiences across all formats.
Barco's proprietary Lightsteering technology makes HDR imaging capable of presenting a wide color spectrum and high-contrast visuals that captivate viewers. As Frank Thomsen puts it, “We believe that excellent quality in visual and sound experiences will enhance the storytelling journey of every film.”
Barco's Role in Cinematic Evolution
Barco, headquartered in Kortrijk, Belgium, has positioned itself at the forefront of visualization and collaboration technology, impacting a variety of sectors including healthcare and enterprise. The company employs over 3,000 specialists dedicated to advancing these technologies, thus driving innovation in the entertainment sphere.
With the CinemaxX expansion, Barco's ambitions in the cinema industry are becoming evident, showcasing a strong commitment to unparalleled cinematic experiences on the European stage. In 2025, the company recorded sales of 964 million euros, indicating robust growth and influence in the market.
The CinemaxX Legacy
CinemaxX has become synonymous with quality in German cinema since its inception in 1990. Operating 30 venues with a total of 257 screens across 26 cities, it continues to prioritize top-notch viewing experiences. The brand proudly became part of Vue International in 2012, which has further enhanced its offerings in the competitive cinema landscape.
Vue International itself represents a powerhouse in cinematic experiences, operating several renowned brands across eight countries including Germany, the UK, and Italy. With a total of 223 locations and almost 2,000 screens, Vue is committed to providing audiences with premium entertainment experiences.
The launch of EPIC at CinemaxX is a testament to the evolving landscape of cinema, marrying modern technology with audience-centric innovation. As they pave the path towards the future of film, Barco and Vue are set to redefine the cinematic landscape in Germany and beyond.
For more information on the EPIC experience at CinemaxX, including ticket booking, visit
www.HDRbyBarco.com.