Christopher Nolan, Denis Villeneuve and James Cameron pay tribute to IMAX pioneer David Keighley, dead at 77

David Keighley, a central figure in the development of IMAX and one of the foremost advocates of large-format cinema, has died at the age of 77. His son, producer Geoff Keighley, confirmed that he passed away Thursday in New York following a battle with neuroendocrine prostate cancer.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Keighley worked on more than 500 IMAX productions, from nature documentaries to major Hollywood blockbusters. He began his journey in 1972, co-founding postproduction company DKP 70MM with his wife, Patricia, after being inspired by the IMAX film North of Superior. Their company became synonymous with quality control, with no Imax print leaving the lab without Keighley’s approval. In 1988, the business was acquired by IMAX, where Keighley went on to serve as the company’s first chief quality officer.

Filmmakers widely credit him with helping bring IMAX technology into mainstream Hollywood. Christopher Nolan, who first used IMAX cameras on The Dark Knight, described Keighley as both a mentor and a friend. “No filmmaker would be able to shoot or screen film of any format today if not for David Keighley — our entire industry owes him a massive debt,” Nolan said.

Director Ryan Coogler, whose upcoming film Sinners was among Keighley’s final projects, recalled his meticulous attention to detail and passion for film science. “Anyone who’s ever had their mind blown by the images in an IMAX theatrical presentation has David to thank for it,” Coogler noted.

James Cameron, whose Avatar films have relied heavily on IMAX presentation, praised Keighley as “a strong ally and a true believer in creating the ultimate cinema experience.” Denis Villeneuve, currently working with IMAX for Dune 3, added: “Some people are irreplaceable. David Keighley is one of them. Cinema is mourning one of its most brilliant technical masters.”

Keighley remained active until the final weeks of his life, overseeing dailies for Nolan’s upcoming The Odyssey. He is survived by his wife Patricia, children Geoff, Chris and Jennifer, and grandchildren Sam and Eli.