The cinematic world is abuzz with the release of The Odyssey Christopher Nolan’s latest epic adaptation of Homer’s classic tale. Starring a stellar cast including Matt DamonAnne HathawayRobert PattinsonZendaya and Tom Holland the film promises to be a visual spectacle. Shot entirely on Imax 70mm film it marks a significant milestone in modern cinema.
The film hit theaters on July 17, 2026 with select screenings starting on July 16. However, the excitement around this release is not just about the story but also the format. Nolan’s preference for filming on 70mm Imax has created a unique challenge and opportunity for moviegoers and theaters alike.
The Odyssey in Imax 70mm: A Rare Experience
Watching The Odyssey in its intended format, Imax 70mm is a rare treat. Only 25 theaters in the United States are equipped to show the film in this format, and tickets for these screenings sold out almost instantly. The demand was so high that it crashed the AMC Theatres app during the second round of ticket releases.
For those lucky enough to secure tickets, the experience is unparalleled. The Imax 70mm format offers a level of detail and immersion that digital projection cannot match. Nolan’s use of this format is a nod to the rich history of cinema and a testament to his commitment to the art form.
The Revival of Film Projection
The release of The Odyssey has sparked a renewed interest in film projection, an art that was thought to be fading away. The scarcity of theaters capable of projecting films in 70mm Imax underscores the dearth of both equipment and skilled projectionists. This has led to a resurgence of interest in preserving and revitalizing this craft.
In Los Angeles, the historic Alex Theatre in Glendale has been transformed into a premier cinema house to screen The Odyssey in 70mm. This marks the first time the theater has been used for a first-run film release since Terminator 2: Judgment Day in 1991. The theater’s artistic director, Miles Williams along with veteran Imax projectionist Taylor Umphenour has worked tirelessly to overhaul the projection setup to accommodate the film.
The Role of Projectionists
Projectionists play a crucial role in delivering the filmmaker’s vision to the audience. The technical expertise required to handle 70mm Imax films is significant. Each print of The Odyssey is about four miles long and weighs roughly 600 pounds. The film projectionists must actively guide the screening, threading and splicing reels, and closely monitoring for mechanical issues.
Finding capable projectionists has been a challenge, but the word has gotten out, and the talent pool has grown. Projectionists come from various backgrounds, including theater managers, retired projectionists, and even workers from other professions who take time off to be part of this special event.
The Future of Film Projection
The overwhelming demand for Imax 70mm screenings raises the question of whether this could lead to a resurgence of fully equipped theaters. However, the practicality of this remains a challenge. Imax film projectors have not been manufactured in about 50 years, and retrofitting existing projectors is a complex and costly process.
Despite these challenges, the community of skilled laborers and enthusiastic audiences who champion analog projection believe it is worth the effort. The artistic value of film projection is unmatched, and the tradition of humans telling stories through flickering light harks back to prehistoric times.
The release of The Odyssey is not just about the film itself but also about the preservation of a craft that has been integral to the history of cinema. It is a testament to the dedication of those who care about this format and a celebration of the community brought together by the love of film.
