One of the most anticipated cinematic releases of 2025, F1 The Movie, is set to hit theaters on Friday, June 27. In response to overwhelming demand, the studio has launched paid previews in select IMAX theaters across India, which have been met with both excitement and dismay due to unexpectedly high ticket prices.
The advance booking for these previews opened to a flurry of activity, with tickets selling rapidly. However, the cost of admission has left many fans in shock, particularly in the Delhi-NCR region, where the average ticket price has soared to a steep Rs. 1350.
IMAX Ticket Prices: A Costly Affair
While IMAX screenings typically command higher prices, the rates for F1 The Movie previews have surpassed even weekend prices in some venues. In Delhi-NCR, the initial bookings were available only at PVR Ambience Gurugram and PVR Select City Walk Delhi, with prices starting at Rs. 1000.
At PVR Ambience Gurugram, ticket prices range from Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1400. Meanwhile, PVR Select City Walk Delhi offers tickets at Rs. 1200 for standard and lounger seats, Rs. 1300 for the ‘Xtra Legroom’ section, and a staggering Rs. 2000 for recliners. Fortunately, PVR Superplex Logix Noida has introduced a more affordable option, with standard tickets priced at Rs. 600 and recliners at Rs. 1200.
Comparative Pricing Across India
Elsewhere in India, IMAX preview prices also exceed typical weekend rates. Inox Malad Mumbai charges between Rs. 610 and Rs. 770, compared to a weekend high of Rs. 620. Inox Kolkata and Inox Kochi follow suit with elevated prices of Rs. 680 and up to Rs. 800, respectively, against their usual weekend rates.
However, some cinemas, such as PVR Lower Parel, Miraj IMAX Wadala, Inox Chennai, PVR Nexus Bengaluru, and Cinepolis Bengaluru, have opted to maintain consistent pricing between previews and weekend screenings, much to the relief of local moviegoers.
Fan Excitement and Future Prospects
As of June 22, F1 The Movie will be showcased in 13 IMAX locations across the country, with an average ticket price of approximately Rs. 798.44. Despite the high costs, the enthusiasm surrounding the film is palpable, with many screenings projected to sell out by mid-week. In fact, the IMAX Chennai show is already fully booked, four days in advance.
The question remains whether additional showings will be added and at what price points. The fervor for F1 The Movie suggests that even with premium pricing, fans are eager to experience the film on the big screen.
“The excitement level is tremendous and all these shows are expected to be 100% full by Wednesday.”
As the release date approaches, the film industry will be watching closely to see how F1 The Movie performs at the box office and whether the high ticket prices will impact overall attendance. With the buzz continuing to build, it seems likely that the movie will race to success, setting the stage for a thrilling cinematic experience.
