In a bold and unprecedented move, IMAX has released premium 70mm film tickets for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic The Odyssey a full year ahead of its theatrical debut. As of July 17, 2025, audiences can now reserve seats for the film’s exclusive screenings, slated for July 16–19, 2026, in select IMAX theaters around the world.
The early release has generated immediate buzz. High-profile venues like AMC Metreon 16 in San Francisco and Regal Hacienda Crossings in Dublin are already seeing limited availability, with most prime-time showings nearly sold out. Globally, fewer than 30 theaters are equipped to project IMAX 70mm film, adding to the rarity and urgency surrounding the event.
The decision reflects both Christopher Nolan’s longstanding commitment to traditional film formats and the enduring allure of cinematic spectacle. IMAX 70mm remains the gold standard for immersive visual storytelling, a fitting choice for a film of this scale and ambition.
Inside The Odyssey: Christopher Nolan’s $250 Million Mythological Epic
The Odyssey marks Christopher Nolan’s latest cinematic undertaking: a mythological adaptation of Homer’s classic epic, filmed entirely using IMAX film cameras in the ultra-high-resolution 70mm format. With a production budget of approximately $250 million, the film promises to be one of the most visually ambitious projects of the decade.
Leading the cast is Matt Damon as Odysseus, joined by Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, and Jon Bernthal. The film chronicles the perilous decade-long journey of Odysseus as he returns home from Troy, encountering creatures like the Cyclops, Sirens, and Circe.
Filming has taken place across Morocco, Greece, Scotland, Iceland, and Los Angeles, bringing a blend of authenticity and visual grandeur to the story. This is Nolan’s first film shot entirely in IMAX 70mm, further cementing his reputation as a pioneer in analog cinematic experiences.
Fan Reactions, Box Office Expectations, and the Nolan Effect
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions online. While some fans enthusiastically secured their tickets, others voiced surprise and even fatigue over the growing trend of early bookings. Comments on Reddit range from, “This is getting ridiculous. I just want to see a damn movie,” to more tongue-in-cheek remarks like, “Guess I’ll mark my calendar for next July”.
Still, industry analysts point to Christopher Nolan’s box office credibility. His last film, Oppenheimer, earned $975 million globally and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Given Nolan’s massive following and the limited number of IMAX 70mm venues, early sell-outs seem likely.
By launching ticket sales this far in advance, IMAX and Nolan are tapping into a deep well of anticipation. With premium showings already filling up, The Odyssey may well become not just a cinematic experience but a pilgrimage for moviegoers.
