Star Trek Into Darkness will be coming out a couple of days earlier than scheduled – in 3D format at least – following a deal between Paramount Pictures and IMAX cinemas.

The deal inked between IMAX and the studio means that the much-anticipated sci-fi film will be shown in their cinemas in the US from May 15, 2013 – two days earlier than the general release date that’s been advertised. "As we saw with the reaction to the first nine minutes of the film, which debuted in our theaters in December, fans are clearly excited by the opportunity to see this epic film come to life in Imax," said Greg Foster, chairman and president of Imax Entertainment, in a statement reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The 3D cinemas giants had previously agreed to a deal that would have seen them screen the film from May 17, like everyone else, but a new negotiation has forged the new deal.

JJ Abrams at the PGAs

It's a big couple of years coming up for JJ Abrams

Jj Abrams has a monumental few years coming up ahead of him, and the success of it could all hinge on the reception to the new Star Trek film that he’s directing. The director recently signed up to helm the three new Star Wars movies being put forward by Disney, since they bought the rights from George Lucas. Getting off on the wrong footing here would instantly have many wondering whether the studio’s decision to award Abrams the trilogy was a poor one. No pressure JJ.

Star Trek Into Darkness trailer