Sony Cine showcased its new RIALTO 65, a 65mm image sensor block for the VENICE 2 camera, at Cine Gear, ahead of its planned market arrival in 2027. This development transforms the VENICE 2 into a 65mm digital cinema platform, allowing for large-format productions. Leitz Cine partnered with Sony to create the professional mount system for the RIALTO 65, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cinema lenses.
The RIALTO 65’s modular design allows VENICE 2 owners to upgrade to 65mm large-format capture without a full camera replacement, offering a more cost-effective entry into this production tier. This move by Sony increases competition in the high-end digital cinema camera market, traditionally dominated by fewer players in the 65mm space. Watch for adoption rates in major film and episodic productions as the RIALTO 65 approaches its 2027 market arrival, particularly its integration into existing VENICE 2 workflows and the breadth of compatible lens options.
The introduction of the Sony RIALTO 65 builds on Sony's strategy of expanding the VENICE 2 ecosystem, following previous modular accessories like the original RIALTO and the VENICE Extension System Mini (CineD, May 2026). This approach allows VENICE 2 bodies to remain central, a significant benefit for rental houses and owner-operators already invested in the platform.
The 65mm format itself is experiencing a resurgence, driven by a desire for more immersive and detailed cinematic experiences, particularly for large screen releases (Sony Cine, June 2026). Competitors like ARRI have long offered high-end 65mm solutions with their ALEXA 65, and more recently, the ALEXA 265, which addressed mobility limitations. Blackmagic's URSA Cine 17K 65 and FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 are also contributing to wider access to large formats (CineD, May 2026).
Details remain to be finalized regarding the RIALTO 65's recording modes, codecs, and full lens compatibility beyond the Leitz THALIA 65. The question of whether it will record internally to the VENICE 2 body or require external paths is a key technical consideration for workflow integration (CineD, May 2026). Sony has indicated a release in the first half of 2027, with pricing yet to be announced (Sports Video Group, June 2026).
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