Extended Reality (XR) films in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, are revolutionizing movie experiences, blending culture and innovation for an immersive new thrill.
The XR cinema, which opened in January this year, is the first of its kind in China. XR technology, encompassing augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), merges virtual content with real-world scenes through advanced hardware and techniques.
Unlike traditional cinema, XR films offer audiences a dynamic, immersive experience rather than passive viewing.
"It is very stunning. First of all, the characters in the film look incredibly realistic - everything from their clothing and modeling to their skin colors feels lifelike. I also learned a lot about history and culture and saw many historic sites through the film. The colors, actions, and scene transitions are all very well done and smooth," said He Jing, a moviegoer.
A cinema manager shared that two XR films have been showcased: one capturing a Tang Dynasty banquet (618-907) and the other centered on the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor.
"The moment you put on your XR equipment, you travel back to the dynasty that our film depicts. Every brick and tile is closely connected to the history and culture of that time. Culture plus technology is the most powerful cultural expression of new quality productive forces," said Su Yifei, manager of Daxiangyuan Digital Technology Co.

Xi’an moviegoers immerse in innovative XR film experience