| Document and Entity Information | Mar. 15, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | IMAX CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000921582 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 15, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | Z4 |
| Entity File Number | 001-35066 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 98-0140269 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2525 Speakman Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Mississauga |
| Entity Address, State or Province | ON |
| Entity Address, Country | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | L5K 1B1 |
| City Area Code | (905) |
| Local Phone Number | 403-6500 |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | 902 Broadway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Three | Floor 20 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Shares, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | IMAX |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
