Story perspectives

Nolan’s “The Odyssey” Opens US in First 1.43-Aspect IMAX

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States opened Christopher Nolan’s film “The Odyssey” on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
The movie was shot with IMAX 70mm cameras and projected in a 1.43 aspect ratio, a first for feature films.
Production used practical effects such as a full-scale Viking longship built with period techniques and an animatronic Cyclops performed by Bill Irwin.
Critics gave scores such as 8.5/10 and three-and-a-half stars, praising its spectacle and IMAX presentation.

History

Historical Context

Christopher Nolan’s 2008 The Dark Knight was the first blockbuster to film extensive IMAX 70 mm sequences, setting a $23.8 million IMAX opening-weekend record and spurring a 30 percent rise in IMAX theater installations. Backed by Warner Bros.’ $185 million budget, it proved large-format, practical-effects films could dominate box-office. The 2026 release The Odyssey, starring Bill Irwin and using the same IMAX 70 mm and 1.43-aspect ratio, continues that trend.

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Story summary

The United States opened Christopher Nolan’s film “The Odyssey” on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
The movie was shot with IMAX 70mm cameras and projected in a 1.43 aspect ratio, a first for feature films.
Production used practical effects such as a full-scale Viking longship built with period techniques and an animatronic Cyclops performed by Bill Irwin.
Critics gave scores such as 8.5/10 and three-and-a-half stars, praising its spectacle and IMAX presentation.

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