Movie Poster Sizes, Dimensions, and Other Important Elements

Movie posters are among the most recognized and popular types of posters. They promote upcoming films and can also become valuable memorabilia, especially when a movie has a strong fan base. Many film fans like to collect these posters, and larger ones often look more impressive on display.

If you work in the movie industry, your main goal is to promote new releases. Knowing which poster sizes work best in cinemas helps make sure they are seen and look professional. In this article, PrintPlace shares some of the standard poster sizes often used in movie campaigns.

What’s the Standard Movie Poster Size?

The 27″ x 40″ one-sheet is the standard movie poster size in cinemas. These posters fit theater frames and display walls, making them the go-to choice for film promotion. One-sheet posters typically feature bold titles, some credits (such as the cast and director), and high-quality visuals that showcase lead actors or highlight a key scene. Since this size is used for official releases, it remains a favorite among movie poster collectors.

Other Movie Poster Types to Consider

Aside from the standard one-sheet, production teams use various poster sizes to market movies in different locations. These formats promote films where full-size theater posters may not fit or may be impractical to display.

• 24″ x 36″

The 24″ x 36″ poster is often used for promotions outside cinemas, in malls, stations, and retail stores. Though not the standard cinema size, it fits most of the common promotional poster frames, making it a practical choice.

• 11″ x 17″

This poster size is easier to mass-produce and distribute widely. Its compact size fits bulletin boards, store counters, or event tables. It also serves as fan merchandise or a promotional souvenir.

International markets follow their own poster standards, especially in places that use ISO measurements. These formats help studios keep their marketing materials consistent in different countries and cinemas.

• A1 Size (23.4″ x 33.1″)

The A1 size is a common movie poster format in many theaters, especially in Europe. It is often used to advertise movies outside malls and cinemas, usually displayed in poster cases. A1 posters from international movies are also popular with collectors, especially if the film is not from the U.S.

• A2 Size (16.5″ x 23.4″)

This smaller international poster format is often used for general movie marketing. It is good for teaser posters, character posters, and indoor displays. Since it is easier to print and distribute, it is often used in large promotional campaigns.

Choosing Movie Posters Based on Promotions

Movie posters are important for promoting films and supporting marketing efforts. Many people also see them as artwork that contributes to a film’s popularity and success. While the classic One-Sheet remains the standard, you have a variety of poster sizes at your fingertips to match your specific promotional plans or display needs.

Movie Posters for Mass Production
Mass-produced movie posters help with large advertising campaigns in many places. They are printed in big numbers for promotions, giveaways, and retail sales, so fans and collectors can easily get them. The 11” x 17” and A2 sizes are popular for this, but you can make posters in other sizes too.

Decorative Movie Posters
Decorative movie posters are made using high-quality images and are designed to look attractive. Studios often give these posters to sponsors or partners. Businesses such as movie-themed restaurants and hobby shops also use them as stylish decorations.

Custom Movie Posters
Custom movie posters have unique artwork or layouts inspired by popular films. These can be character posters, posters featuring movie settings, or custom visuals inspired by famous scenes. Businesses and fans order these special posters for displays, home decor, or private collections, showcasing their personal preferences.

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Putting Out the Best Movie Posters

Movie posters have always played a huge role in building excitement around upcoming releases. Over time, some even become iconic collectibles that fans actively look for. Because posters carry both marketing and memorabilia value, all the promotions, design, and text should gel to create an impactful movie poster. Choose the right poster size to lay the foundation for your first poster design.

And if you’re producing or sponsoring a film, offering high-quality one-sheet posters that best represent the movie is a must for cinemas, while other poster types and sizes give fans something worth keeping. Once your artwork is ready, let PrintPlace turn it into durable, professional movie posters made to last for years.