The Odyssey: Nolan’s IMAX epic claims $264m global debut
Universal Pictures confirms the Homer adaptation has surpassed Oppenheimer’s opening, marking the director’s strongest start since The Dark Knight Rises.
Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, has stormed the global box office, securing US$264m in its opening weekend according to distributor Universal Pictures. Starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya, the film represents a significant commercial milestone, marking the director’s best opening since The Dark Knight Rises when adjusted for inflation and surpassing the debut of his 2023 release, Oppenheimer.
Produced at a reported cost of US$250m, the film is notable for being the first feature movie shot entirely with IMAX cameras. The production required heavy, high-resolution equipment to capture the perilous 10-year journey of Odysseus following the Trojan War. The film launched across 73 international markets, spanning more than 12,800 locations and 26,000 screens, including 440 IMAX venues.
In North America, the film grossed US$124.5m, ranking as the third-largest opening of the year behind family franchises Toy Story 5 and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. This performance exceeded Universal’s initial projection of US$100m, despite the film carrying an R rating. Premium large formats, including IMAX, accounted for 53% of the box office revenue in the region, with audiences skewing male and predominantly aged between 18 and 34.
The UK and Ireland emerged as the territory with the strongest international opening, generating £12.9m (US$17.4m) over three days. Demand was particularly high for IMAX screenings, with sold-out shows at London’s BFI IMAX cinema prompting fans to queue from midnight and 4am. The film also features Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Samantha Morton, and Charlize Theron, receiving critical acclaim as Nolan’s best work to date.
Nolan recently indicated he will take a break of at least three years before his next project, citing the intense demands of The Odyssey’s production. He described a desire for a period of rest after the lengthy shoot, noting that he tends to get restless and bored without work. The film’s success underscores the enduring commercial power of large-format, auteur-driven cinema in a market increasingly dominated by franchise content.