Cinema powerhouse Arri elevates its premier cinematography camera to an extreme level with a substantial model enhancement
Arri has announced the latest addition to its digital cinema camera lineup - the Alexa 35 Xtreme. This powerful new device introduces a game-changing high-efficiency RGB codec called Arricore, which preserves industry-leading image quality while significantly reducing data rates.
The Alexa 35 Xtreme: A Powerhouse in Cinematic Production
The Alexa 35 Xtreme boasts a Super35 digital sensor with a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3164 (4.6K Open Gate). It offers an extended frame rate range from 0.75 up to 660 frames per second (fps), a major leap from the original Alexa 35's 120 fps.
At frame rates up to 330 fps, the camera maintains its full 17 stops of dynamic range, a feature that sets it apart in the world of high-speed cinematography. A new Sensor Overdrive mode pushes the frame rate ceiling to 660 fps, delivering an impressive 11 stops of dynamic range for ultra-fast capture situations.
Arricore: The Future of Efficient RGB Codecs
Arricore, the new RGB codec introduced with the Alexa 35 Xtreme, is designed to reduce data rates while maintaining high image quality. This innovation is compatible with existing Alexa 35 workflows and third-party tools, making it a seamless addition to any production.
Enhanced Performance and Versatility
The Alexa 35 Xtreme is powered by a new main processor and faster onboard memory, enabling these high frame rates and extended pre-recording times. For example, it supports 30 seconds of pre-recording at 4.6K ProRes 4444 shooting at 24 fps, and up to five minutes in HD ProRes 422 HQ at 24 fps.
The camera's versatility shines in its ability to record in various formats, including MXF/ARRIRAW, MXF/ARRICORE, and Apple ProRes. It also features internal motorized ND filters, an electronic shutter range, and an exposure index from 160 to 6400 ISO.
Designed for Demanding High-End Productions
The Alexa 35 Xtreme is a compact device, with dimensions of approximately 147 x 152.5 x 203 mm and a weight of around 3 kg with included antennas and mount. It retains full compatibility with its existing range of mechanical and electronic accessories, making it a valuable addition to any high-end filmmaker's arsenal.
Deliveries Begin in August 2025
The Alexa 35 Xtreme is set to begin deliveries in August 2025. With its exceptional dynamic range, ultra-high frame rates, extended pre-recording times, the innovative Arricore codec, and versatility for demanding high-end cinematic and documentary productions, it's poised to set a new benchmark for versatility, speed, and post-production efficiency in high-end digital cinema.
About Kalum Carter
Kalum Carter, a photographer, filmmaker, creative director, and writer with over 10 years of experience in visual storytelling, has been following the developments in the digital cinema industry closely. He writes about photography and filmmaking, interviewing industry professionals, showcasing emerging talent, and offering in-depth analyses of the art form.
- The latest digital cinema camera from Arri, Alexa 35 Xtreme, offers a Super35 digital sensor and a significant leap in frame rate range, recording up to 660 frames per second.
- The new high-efficiency RGB codec, Arricore, introduced with the Alexa 35 Xtreme, will reduce data rates and maintain high image quality, compatible with existing Alexa 35 workflows.
- At frame rates up to 330 fps, the Alexa 35 Xtreme maintains its full 17 stops of dynamic range, while in Sensor Overdrive mode, it delivers an impressive 11 stops of dynamic range for ultra-fast capture situations.
- The Alexa 35 Xtreme supports recording in various formats including MXF/ARRIRAW, MXF/ARRICORE, and Apple ProRes, and comes with internal motorized ND filters, an electronic shutter range, and an exposure index from 160 to 6400 ISO.
- For demanding high-end productions, lens accessories and other gadgets are compatible with the Alexa 35 Xtreme, making it a valuable addition to any filmmaker's arsenal.
- Kalum Carter, a photographer, filmmaker, and writer with over 10 years of experience in visual storytelling, is following the industry closely, offering in-depth reviews and analyses of the latest developments in photography and filmmaking.
