Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Set for Release: Only 41 Theatres Worldwide Will Screen It in Original IMAX 1570

Christopher Nolan's latest epic arrives on July 17, becoming the first feature film shot entirely with IMAX cameras. However, only a handful of theatres across the globe can present it in its original IMAX 1570 format.

The Odyssey Release: Academy Award-winning filmmaker Christopher Nolan is set to bring his highly anticipated film The Odyssey to theatres on July 17, 2026. The film has already generated significant excitement among movie enthusiasts, not only because of its star-studded cast but also due to its groundbreaking production.

The Odyssey is the first feature film ever shot entirely using IMAX cameras, making it a milestone in cinematic history. Despite this achievement, audiences hoping to experience the movie in its highest-quality presentation will have limited options, as only 41 theatres worldwide are equipped to screen it in the original IMAX 1570 format.

Here's everything you need to know about Nolan's latest project and why its theatrical release is attracting global attention.

A Historic Achievement for IMAX Cinema

Christopher Nolan has consistently championed large-format filmmaking, and The Odyssey takes that commitment a step further.

Unlike previous productions that used IMAX cameras for selected sequences, the new film has been filmed entirely with IMAX cameras, making it the first full-length feature to do so.

The project represents a major technical milestone, showcasing the capabilities of one of the highest-quality film formats still in use today.

What Is IMAX 1570?

IMAX 1570 is considered one of the highest-resolution film projection formats available.

Its name comes from its technical specifications:

• 70mm film stock.

• 15 perforations per frame.

• Extremely high image resolution.

• Greater visual detail and clarity.

• Large-format presentation designed for immersive viewing.

The format delivers exceptional picture quality, making it a preferred choice for filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan who prioritize large-screen cinematic experiences.

Why Is It So Rare?

Although IMAX 1570 offers outstanding image quality, very few theatres still support the format.

The reasons include:

• The global transition to digital projection systems.

• High maintenance costs.

• Limited availability of film projectors.

• Complex handling of large-format film reels.

As a result, only 41 theatres worldwide currently retain the ability to screen films in the original IMAX 1570 format.

Shooting in IMAX Was a Technical Challenge

Filming an entire movie using IMAX cameras is considerably more demanding than conventional digital filmmaking.

Some of the technical challenges include:

• Cameras weighing approximately 180 kilograms.

• Significant operating noise during filming.

• Film magazines requiring replacement roughly every three minutes.

• More complex production logistics compared to digital cameras.

Despite these challenges, Nolan chose the format to achieve the highest possible visual quality.

No IMAX 1570 Theatre in India

Indian audiences will be able to watch The Odyssey in theatres, but not in the original IMAX 1570 presentation.

Currently, India does not have a theatre equipped with IMAX 1570 film projection, meaning viewers will experience the movie through digital IMAX or other available premium formats.

Melbourne IMAX Among the Exclusive Venues

One of the most prominent theatres screening the original IMAX 1570 print is IMAX Melbourne in Australia.

The venue is notable for:

• Being the only IMAX 1570 screening location in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Housing one of the world's largest IMAX screens.

• Featuring a 1.43:1 aspect ratio screen measuring approximately 32 metres wide and 23 metres high.

The theatre has become a major destination for Christopher Nolan fans seeking the film's intended presentation.

Fans Are Travelling Across Countries

The limited number of IMAX 1570 theatres has turned The Odyssey into a unique travel experience for many cinema enthusiasts.

Reports indicate that moviegoers are travelling from countries including:

• Turkey

• Singapore

• Malaysia

• Germany

• United States

Some fans have even planned vacations around screening schedules to experience the film in its original format.

Where Are IMAX 1570 Theatres Located?

The remaining IMAX 1570 venues are spread across several countries.

These include locations in:

• United States

• Canada

• United Kingdom

• Australia

• Belgium

• Czech Republic

• France

Many of these theatres are located within science museums, educational institutions and premium commercial multiplexes.

Star-Studded Cast

The Odyssey features an ensemble cast that includes several internationally acclaimed actors, such as:

• Matt Damon

• Tom Holland

• Anne Hathaway

• Zendaya

• Robert Pattinson

• Charlize Theron

• Lupita Nyong'o

• Mia Goth

• Benny Safdie

• Samantha Morton

• Travis Scott

• Elliot Page

• John Leguizamo

The film marks one of Nolan's largest ensemble productions to date.

Story Based on Homer's Epic

The film adapts Homer's classic epic poem, The Odyssey.

The story follows Odysseus, the legendary King of Ithaca, as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War.

His decade-long journey is filled with:

• Mythological creatures.

• Divine intervention.

• Dangerous temptations.

• Epic battles.

• Extraordinary adventures.

The ancient Greek epic has been reimagined for modern audiences through Christopher Nolan's cinematic vision.

Release Date

The Odyssey is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on July 17, 2026.

With groundbreaking filmmaking techniques, limited IMAX 1570 screenings and worldwide anticipation, the film is expected to become one of the year's biggest cinematic events.

Disclaimer

Release schedules, theatre availability and screening formats may vary by region. Audiences are advised to verify show timings and available formats with their local cinema before booking tickets.