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'The Odyssey' extends stay in 70mm IMAX theaters as shows sell out weeks in advance

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Original Story by CNBC
July 30, 2026
'The Odyssey' extends stay in 70mm IMAX theaters as shows sell out weeks in advance

Context:

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey remains in heavy demand as Universal and IMAX extend 70mm screenings into mid-September, with tickets selling out quickly due to preference for the film’s native aspect ratio and film stock. Physical 70mm playbacks are scarce—only 25 U.S. screens and 41 locations worldwide—driving late-night and early-morning showings to meet demand. IMAX has generated around $140 million of the movie’s global box office, representing roughly one-fifth of its total take. The film’s momentum benefits from strong advance bookings, though upcoming releases will compete for scarce screen time. A taller 70mm commitment isn’t expected until December with Dune: Part Three, leaving a crowded slate ahead for The Odyssey.

Dive Deeper:

  • The expansion targets mid-September, indicating ongoing demand while reflecting limited supply of physical 70mm screenings.

  • Only 25 U.S. screens and 41 global locations can show the project on film, a constraint driven by the industry’s digital-dominant landscape.

  • IMAX has offered digital 70mm crops in some theaters, but the best experience remains the physical reel format.

  • As of the weekend, IMAX-driven revenue reached about $140 million worldwide, accounting for roughly 20% of the movie’s total gross.

  • Demand has been fueled by advance ticketing and occasional early access sales, with some July 2025 screenings appearing well before release.

  • Upcoming competition includes Spider-Man: Brand New Day and other IMAX titles like The End of Oak Street and Resident Evil, which will occupy screens.

  • IMAX’s next 70mm commitment is not until December, when Dune: Part Three premieres, creating a bottleneck for future exclusive runs.

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