Christopher Nolan’s film “The Odyssey” is extending its limited 70 mm screenings in IMAX theaters through mid-September due to overwhelming demand. The release has seen tickets sell out rapidly, as audiences prioritize viewing the movie on physical film reels in the aspect ratio intended by the filmmaker. Despite IMAX offering digital screenings of the 70 mm version, these often crop the film, which has increased the appeal of the rare locations equipped to play the physical format. Currently, there are only 25 screens in the U.S. and 41 worldwide capable of showing the movie on 70 mm film, reflecting the scarcity of this traditional format in modern theaters.

IMAX ticket sales for “The Odyssey” have already surpassed $140 million globally, which accounts for over 20% of the movie’s total worldwide box office revenue of $652 million. This is notable given that IMAX facilities represent less than 1% of all cinema screens worldwide. To accommodate demand, IMAX has added additional showings at unconventional times, such as late nights and early mornings. The strong ticket sales and extended run echo the success of Nolan’s previous hit “Oppenheimer,” which also benefited from a surge in physical film format screenings.

The movie’s box office performance has been robust, with a comparatively mild 27% decline in ticket sales during its second week domestically. This contrasts with typical blockbuster drops of 50% to 70%, highlighting strong word of mouth and repeat audience interest. “The Odyssey” has also seen significant advance ticket sales, with some bookings opening as early as July 2025, a full year before release. For the past few weeks, competition has been relatively light, but that is about to change with the recent debut of Sony and Marvel’s “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and upcoming IMAX features like “The End of Oak Street” and “Resident Evil.”

Looking ahead, “The Odyssey” will face more competition for IMAX screens, but fans of 70 mm presentations will have a break in major IMAX commitments until Warner Bros. and director Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Three” arrives on December 18. The ongoing enthusiasm for “The Odyssey” in this premium format underscores how Nolan’s dedication to physical film continues to drive a unique cinema-going experience that resonates strongly with viewers and contributes significantly to the movie’s box office success worldwide.