{VARIETY/Diane Garrett) - Imax will join the more than 1,000 digital theaters that will unspool "Beowulf" in 3-D beginning Nov. 16.

Exhib will convert Robert Zemeckis' motion-capture pic for the large-screen format. Movie, based on the 9th century poem, will also bow on the same date in traditional 35mm at Stateside multiplexes.

Paramount is distributing the pic domestically, and Warner will release it three weeks later internationally. The studios previously pacted with Real D to pave the way for the screening on more than 1,000 digital screens and had also been expected to work with Imax on this release (Daily Variety, Oct. 25).

Zemeckis used a similar motion-capture technology on "The Polar Express," and that pic was a hit in Imax 3-D. Imax co-topper Richard Gelfond and Bradley Wechsler noted the "Polar" success in unveiling the latest collaboration, adding, "so we're obviously very optimistic about the potential 'Beowulf' holds for the Imax theater network."

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