Director Christopher Nolan is filming four action sequences in The Dark Knight in IMAX format, according to USA Today.

The article, which includes a first look at an IMAX-filmed image (see it here at right), notes that one of the scenes includes the introduction of the Joker, played by Heath Ledger.

The inclusion of the specially filmed scenes will make the Batman Begins sequel the first feature to be partly shot in the IMAX format. Typically, a traditional 35mm film will be re-mastered and stretched out to fill the enormous screen in IMAX theaters, which can negatively effect picture quality. But scenes filmed with IMAX cameras will fill the entire screen without effecting quality and will appear more vivid when viewed on standard screens.

SHH has posted a second image as well as the official press release.

The Dark Knight opens in standard and IMAX theaters on July 18, 2008.