The next big thing in premium large format theatrical viewing takes inspiration from the stars.
Cosm, an immersive entertainment technology company, got its start programming planetariums — its name a combination of "cosmos" and "colosseum." The company's massive, domed screens first offered guests a view of the universe, now they mimic courtside seats at sports venues around the world and drop film fans into some of Hollywood's most iconic sets.
At a time when the theatrical industry is seeing its biggest growth from the sale of premium large format, or PLF, tickets, Cosm seeks to offer a fresh take on an elevated viewing experience. And it's quickly expanding both its footprint and its content library.
Since 2024, Cosm has opened four theaters — near Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta and Detroit — with a Cleveland hub set to open in 2027. These experimental venues have garnered the attention of sports fans, screening live matchups in an arena-like environment. Showings often sell out, according to Cosm.
More recently, Cosm has partnered with Hollywood studios like Warner Bros., now a part of Skydance, to bring the likes of "The Matrix," "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and "It" to its locations. Cosm recently signed a deal with Universal, which will bring "Shrek" to its domes in December.