Barco Expands Premium HDR Cinematic Experience Across Germany
Barco, the renowned cinema projection company, is set to enhance the cinematic experience in Germany by expanding its premium HDR by Barco format. Starting in November 2023, this advanced projection technology will be introduced at select Cineplex locations across Germany, including the prominent Cinedom Cologne. This initiative signifies a substantial expansion within the European cinema landscape, especially as Cineplex is a leading exhibitor in the country and Cinedom Cologne ranks among its largest cinemas.
The rollout includes installations at three Cineplex venues: Cineplex Münster, Cineplex Paderborn Pollux, and Cineplex Goslar. Notably, Cineplex Münster, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month, will become the first cinema worldwide to feature two auditoriums equipped with HDR by Barco technology. This upgrade represents a significant enhancement to the venue’s existing premium large format (PLF) offerings. The new HDR theater at Cinedom Cologne will introduce the “CinedomX” experience, a novel premium cinema concept aimed at elevating viewer engagement.
Gerwin Damberg, Executive Vice President of Barco Cinema, expressed pride in the collaboration with Cineplex and Cinedom, stating, “We’re proud to bring HDR by Barco to German audiences through our partnerships with Cineplex and Cinedom—two of the country’s most respected cinema brands.” He added a personal touch, reflecting on his roots in Germany and how this milestone enhances the cinematic experience in theaters that inspired his passion for film.
In addition to the German expansion, Barco’s CEO, An Steegen, who has been recognized in Variety’s Women’s Impact report for 2025, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and transforming the cinema experience. “The accelerated drive for innovation and elevating cinema experience is transforming and reinvigorating the industry,” she noted. Steegen emphasized the importance of continual technological advancements, indicating that the upcoming 2026 slate looks promising for audiences.
Barco’s HDR by Barco format utilizes patented Lightsteering technology, which redistributes light on screen, producing highlights over six times brighter than traditional projection methods. This capability allows for rich details in darker scenes, enhancing depth and clarity. The format promises expansive creative opportunities for filmmakers, delivering a wide color gamut and high-contrast images designed to captivate audiences.
Upcoming releases in the HDR format include titles such as “Wicked: For Good,” which is slated for release later this year. In the United States, Barco is also broadening its HDR reach through partnerships with various exhibitors. By the end of the year, more than 30 HDR locations will be operational across the country. Regal Cinemas plans to establish 20 RPX screens by year-end, while Alamo Drafthouse is set to introduce additional HDR screens.
This strategic expansion of HDR by Barco reflects the company’s mission to deliver innovative cinema experiences that resonate with both audiences and exhibitors alike, ensuring that moviegoers continue to engage with cinema week after week.
