D-Box is a movie theater technology that gives an amazing sensory experience. But, as a moviegoer, you must be thinking, “What is D-Box and is it worth watching”.
Although your question is simple yet it cannot be answered straightforwardly. Because before establishing an opinion and a final decision, we need to go through some facts.
A lot of factors affect the movie experience. The first is the inclination and preference of the audience. Next, it depends on the movie genre.
Further, cinema structure and design, seating, comfort, and cost make you decide. Personally, I really enjoyed watching some movies in the D-Box theater.
I will not confuse you further. In simple words, D-Box is a motion-activated movie experience that appeals to your five senses.
Every scene seems to happen in your real life and you can manage the intensity of your feelings.
However, there is much more to explore about this movie theater. Hence, you should keep reading this article so that you can take a wise decision.
D-Box Theater: A Brief Background
D-Box was a company that used to manufacture subwoofers and was founded in 1998. Their customers would buy different types of subwoofers to create a motion effect during movies.
This observation motivated the company to jump into the field of motion technologies. Their first-ever motion seating system was released in 2001.
The seats were designed for theatrical exhibitions only. Because they were too expensive to be purchased by home consumers.
In 2009, D-Box motion technology was used for the film “Fast & Furious”. The experiment was very successful.
Hence, this movie theater technology flourished further. Now, D-Box has 700 screens in over 40 countries.
What is Special About D-Box Theater?
D-Box creates a hyper-realistic environment. So, you are transported to an amazing motion-based virtual world. D-Box uses a unique frequency band and integrates film graphics in seats.
Moreover, the sound is well synchronized to create a lively effect. The volume is adjustable. Scenes envelop you from all sides and you feel immersed in the movie.
My Movie Experience at D-Box Theater
Honestly speaking, D-Box was new for me. What I knew was that “D-Box is a motion theater that appeals to your senses”. I bought the ticket just to experience it.
However, I took a wise decision by choosing the action movie; Star Wars. Watching this movie at D-Box was a real enjoyment. The flying scenes made me feel as if I am also flying with them.
Moreover, the force and fighting scenes were quite immersive. After my first attempt, I also watched San Andreas, Harry Potter, and Tron Legacy in D-Box.
I enjoyed all four movies. But, the experience with Harry Potter was normal but not excellent. Previously, I watched it in IMAX and will suggest you do so.
Because it does not include too many action scenes. But, the magic scenes, the dark settings, horror, and thrill can be best enjoyed on the immersive screen of IMAX.
You may also like: Is IMAX Theater Worth it?
How D-Box Work?
D-Box technology is a combination of highly-specialized software and hardware programs. It uses motion codes that are stored in the software.
It manages and transmits the motion signals to the actuators in the seats. Hence, the seats move with the scene. Haptic technology operates at D-Box theaters.
The seats are equipped with actuators that also sit on the floor. D-Box motion codes are specific instructions, motion artists script them and film directors approve these codes.
So, the result is subtle pitch, heave, roll, vibrations, and perfect sync with the actions.
Seats at D-Box
D-Box theater offers comfortable and adjustable seats. The seats also have aesthetic value and look very attractive. The seats are made of faux fur.
The armrest can be customized according to your comfort. The seats are big and spacious, the control panel is located on the right armrest. Hence, you enjoy movies in a cozy environment.
The theater I visited, has only two rows of D-Box seats. While the others seats are standard. I selected the middle seat.
As you know the seats move with the action and you can adjust the intensity. I chose the normal intensity as it was my first experience. However, some people were opting for max.
Fortunately, you can turn OFF the intensity completely and watch the movie in normal mode if you feel quite uncomfortable. Overall, the movie experience was lively and the seats impressed me.
Best Movies to Watch in D-Box
My sincere suggestion is to watch full-action movies at D-Box. It almost costs $18. Action movies like Infinity Wars, Star Tours, and Iron Man 3 will prove their worth in D-Box.
Because there is action at every minute. You have a lot of opportunities for motion, rumbling, and shaking.
If you choose a romantic or horror movie, you will experience the motion effects seldom. Hence, the real essence of D-Box will remain unrevealed. In the end, you will be repenting for wasting your money.
Cons of D-Box Theater
In addition to pros, there are some cons of D-Box theater. Before going to D-Box, you must know certain facts.
- Be careful while choosing the intensity. It is best to choose the lowest intensity when you are a new visitor.
- Beware! you will not be able to eat and drink calmly. During my first visit, I spilled my popcorn during a fight scene.
- It was ridiculous to watch people struggling with their drinks. However, you can avoid such situations by not purchasing any eatables or drinks.
- Intense motion settings ruin your watch experience by disrupting the visuals.
- The motion effect does not go even after an hour. You feel like you are still shaking, vibrating, and moving or came from a long bus ride.
- Some of my acquaintances report that they feel dizziness and nausea for several hours.
Who Should Avoid D-Box?
As D-Box includes a lot of motion and movements, it is not worth it for delicate people. For example, some people feel nausea, vomiting, and headaches during frequent motions.
If you do not like rides and are vulnerable to motion sickness, D-Box is not for you. Furthermore, D-Box is a little distracting as your seat keeps on moving with the action.
Hence, you may feel difficulty focusing on the scenes. Another problem is that too much motion can affect your physical health.
If your back hurts, I don’t recommend D-Box. The sudden jerks or shakes can worsen your pain.
Watch this video to know about the rumble chair at D-Box
FAQs About D-Box Theater
Here are some of the frequently asked questions to help you further in understanding D-Box technology.
Are D-Box seats recliners?
Yes, D-Box seats are power recliners. They have an adjustable and comfortable design. You can customize the intensity and can also disable it fully. The seats use faux leather and look stylish.
How D-Box is different from IMAX?
D-Box focuses on sensory pleasure by moving, shaking, and vibrating your seats with the action. The seats are narrower but have volume control. IMAX, on the other hand, is all about the screen. It uses advanced visual technologies and giant screens to give an immersive watch experience. But, IMAX does not have motion seats.
What is the best seating position in the D-Box cinema?
As a thumb rule, the best position for D-Box theater is the center. This rule applies to almost all sorts of movie cinemas. Because while sitting in the center, you can watch the screen fully. The left or right seats do not give you the perfect viewing experience.
Also read: Review on Cinemark XD
Is D-Box Worth It?
D-Box is a good cinema technology. However, some moviegoers do not like it due to distractions and sudden movements. Many of my friends find IMAX better than D-Box.
It totally depends on personal choice. I have explained in detail what D-Box is and how it works. I also have told you both the pros and cons of D-Box Theater.
You will enjoy it if you have no problem with thriller rides such as “Pirate Ship” and “Roller Coaster”. In this case, you will love to feel each action with all your five senses.
However, if you have a weak heart, delicate nature, physical ailments, or pain then avoid D-Box. Personally speaking, I enjoyed watching my favorite action movies on D-Box.
You should remember that D-Box proves its real worth only for movies with a lot of action and motion. Hopefully, this guide has satisfied you by answering what is D-Box theater and is it worth watching.
