Ultra70

15/70

1-24

15/65

fps range
film format

1000 ft

mos

magazine capacity
(blimp available)

The Ultra 70 cameras are modernized 15-Perf 65mm film cameras. Featuring eight claws, four registration pins, and a vacuum backplate, these produce some of the world’s steadiest 1570 images.

Combined with new digital electronics, they perform to modern operational reliability standards.

15/70 is the biggest motion picture capture format in existence with each frame containing up to 18K of resolution. Capturing stunning imagery that combines ultra-high resolution with the rich color and texture of analog film. A single frame of 15/70 is nearly 10 times larger than standard 35mm film, more than four times larger than VistaVision, and three times larger than 5-perf 65mm.

The Ultra 70 cameras feature an optional fiberglass sound blimp, and an underwater housing built by the legendary Pete Romano of Hydroflex.

Three camera bodies and 12 magazines are available.

Twelve IMAX-mounted Hasselblad Zeiss lenses are available, ranging from a ultra-wide 30mm to a telephoto 500mm, including zoom lens options, and a fast Mamiya 80mm T2.

Additional custom Imax-mount lenses are available from ZERØ OPTIK and Atlas Lens Co., both based in Los Angeles.

key features:

  • 15-Perf 65mm format
  • Vacuum film gate
  • IMAX lens mount
  • Fiberglass sound blimp
  • 2K Digital video assist
  • Weight: 73lbs

modern features in 2026:

  • Microprocessor electronics
  • Optical tailout sensors
  • Adjustable ramp for cold weather
  • Preston FI+Z integration
  • 2-pin and 3-pin RS power
  • Panavision remote support
  • Integrated iris adjustment
  • AKS mounting plates
(sound blimp)

Wilcam

W-4

1-40

15/65

fps range
film format

1000 ft

mos

magazine capacity
(quieter than other 1570 systems)

The Wilcam W-4 is a ultra robust 15-perf 65mm film camera, capable of high frame rates with exceptional image steadiness. This particular camera was designed by Geoff Williamson and owned by legendary IMAX filmmaker George Casey for three decades. It has been in continuous use an extensive list of IMAX productions.

The W-4 filmed the eruption of Mount St. Helens, lions of the Serengeti, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, and the grizzly bears of northern Alaska. In later years, it was owned by George’s son, Sean Casey, who used it to film extreme weather in the 15/70 format, including footage shot from inside a tornado.

Both Sean and this camera were frequently featured on the iconic Discovery Channel series Storm Chasers.

key features:

  • 15-Perf 65mm format
  • Vacuum film gate
  • IMAX lens mount
  • 2K Digital video assist
  • AKS mounting plates
  • Weight: 50lbs
Copyright 2014 MacGillivray Freeman Films and Pacific Life. Photographer: Barbara MacGillivray.