Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ finds its biggest draw in scarce Imax 70 mm screenings
CNBC reports that moviegoers are driving demand for Christopher Nolan’s latest release by seeking out Imax 70 mm screenings, despite the format’s limited availability.

Christopher Nolan’s film ‘The Odyssey’ is seeing its primary appeal driven by audience demand for Imax 70 mm screenings, according to a report by CNBC. The high-fidelity format has emerged as the central attraction for the release, with viewers actively seeking out these specific showings over standard digital or 35 mm alternatives.
The report highlights a distinct shift in consumer behaviour, where moviegoers are willing to incur additional travel costs to access venues offering the scarce format. This willingness to travel suggests a strong preference for the technical specifications of Imax 70 mm, positioning it as the defining feature of the film’s theatrical run.
Beyond logistical efforts, audiences are also paying price premiums to secure tickets for these limited screenings. CNBC notes that the financial cost is secondary to the desire for the specific viewing experience, indicating that the format itself holds significant value for the target demographic.
The scarcity of Imax 70 mm screenings appears to be a key factor in this trend. With fewer venues equipped to project the format, competition for seats is likely intensifying, further driving the premiums observed in the market. This dynamic underscores the niche but potent appeal of large-format film exhibition.
While specific box office figures or the exact number of screenings were not provided in the source material, the reported behaviour points to a successful alignment between the director’s vision and audience expectations. The demand for ‘The Odyssey’ in this specific format suggests that technical presentation remains a critical driver for theatrical attendance.
The intersection of culture and markets is evident in this trend, as the financial premium paid by consumers reflects the perceived value of the Imax 70 mm experience. For the film’s distributors, this indicates that marketing the technical capabilities of the screening may be as important as the narrative content itself.
As the theatrical run continues, the performance of these scarce screenings will likely serve as a key indicator of the film’s overall success. The willingness of audiences to travel and pay extra highlights the enduring appeal of premium large-format cinema for dedicated filmgoers.

