Full Breakdown
Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” Becomes Highest-Grossing R-Rated Film
8/20/2026, 4:09:27 AM
The Odyssey Tops the R-Rated Box-Office
Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of the ancient Greek epic, “The Odyssey,” has officially overtaken *Deadpool & Wolverine* to become the highest-grossing R-rated movie worldwide. The film’s cumulative box-office total now stands at $1.34 billion, edging past the Marvel-based record of $1.33 billion set by *Deadpool & Wolverine* earlier in 2024. Domestic earnings are reported at $515 million, while the previous domestic leader, *Deadpool & Wolverine*, remains at $632 million. Industry forecasters estimate the final worldwide take could approach $1.6 billion, which would surpass Nolan’s earlier top-grossing entry, *The Dark Knight Rises* ($1.08 billion).
Background & Context
Before *The Odyssey*, the R-rated box-office crown passed through several high-profile titles. *Deadpool & Wolverine* held the record with $1.33 billion, *Joker* previously sat at $1.07 billion, and *Oppenheimer* earned $983 million. Nolan’s own *Oppenheimer* ranks fourth among R-rated releases. The new milestone arrives amid a year in which Marvel’s *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* has eclipsed $2 billion, making *The Odyssey* one of the year’s biggest releases despite its R rating.
Data & Statistics
- Worldwide gross: $1.34 billion
- Domestic gross: $515 million
- *Deadpool & Wolverine* total: $1.338 billion
- Prior Nolan record (*The Dark Knight Rises*): $1.08 billion
- Projected final gross: ? $1.6 billion
Official Statements & Responses
Actor Ryan Reynolds—who stars in *Deadpool & Wolverine*—publicly congratulated Nolan and the cast on social media, describing the achievement as “one helluva car.” Reynolds emphasized the lack of hard feelings and praised the film’s success, framing his comment in a light-hearted video that juxtaposed scenes from both movies.
What’s Next
Screenings of *The Odyssey* continue, with 70 mm IMAX showings extended through September 16. Additionally, the animated feature “Coyote vs Acme” is slated for theatrical release on August 28, entering a crowded summer slate while the Nolan film maintains its box-office momentum.
