Sony to Expand VENICE 2 with RIALTO 65, Bringing 65mm to Existing Hardware

Sony's introduction of the RIALTO 65 expands the VENICE 2's capabilities into 65mm large-format cinematography, directly addressing demand for enhanced immersive visuals and shallow depth of field in premium productions. This modular strategy allows existing VENICE 2 users, including rental houses and production companies, to upgrade rather than replace their systems, preserving investment and streamlining workflows. The market will watch for specific lens compatibility, definitive pricing, and the full range of recording modes as these details emerge closer to the 2027 release.

Sony's RIALTO 65 development places it more firmly in the high-end large-format cinema camera market, a segment where ARRI's ALEXA 65 and ALEXA 265 have largely dominated, per CineD (June 2026). While other players like Blackmagic’s URSA Cine 17K 65 and Fujifilm GFX ETERNA 55 are expanding access to large formats from below, Sony's strategy focuses on extending an established platform. Y.M.Cinema Magazine (June 2026) notes this modular approach protects the VENICE 2's lifecycle and ecosystem, making adoption potentially easier for those familiar with Sony's color science and workflow. The decision to offer a detachable sensor block, echoing Sony’s existing VENICE Extension System, is a practical response to the historical bulk of large-format cameras, allowing for more flexible shooting configurations in demanding production environments (PetaPixel, June 2026). This includes use on gimbals, cranes, or in tight spaces, areas where traditional 65mm setups have struggled. As the RIALTO 65 moves towards its H1 2027 release, the industry will keenly monitor lens support specifics, as a robust lens ecosystem is critical for any large-format system (CineD, June 2026).