Variety reported Tuesday that Star Wars Episode 2:  Attack of the Clones will be released in Imax format in over 70 (Imax) theaters on November 1, only the second live-action film ever to be adapted to the format (the first will be Apollo 13, due for release this month).  Fox execs are predicting that hard-core fans will want to see the giant-screen, high-resolution version of the movie and will seek out Imax theaters to do so. 

 

The plus for retailers will be the additional attention brought to the property just prior to the home video release November 12 (see 'Mega-Campaigns for Q4 DVDs'), which will provide another opportunity to sell Episode 2 merchandise, particularly high-end Christmas items. 

 

Various release formats are being considered for Imax versions of future movies, including simultaneous release with the regular-screen versions.  One movie reportedly being considered for Imax-ification is Daredevil, due out in 03.