Christopher Nolan's film The Odyssey is the first feature-length movie shot entirely on IMAX 70mm film, using specially developed IMAX cameras for the production. The film debuted on August 12, 2026, amid high demand for the 70mm IMAX screenings, leading to sold-out shows and long booking times worldwide [1, 2].
Only 41 cinemas globally can project the special 70mm IMAX print, with more than half located in the United States [1, 2]. The IMAX 70mm format features a tall 1.43:1 aspect ratio suited for giant screens, delivering the equivalent of up to 18K resolution with very bright projection [2, 3]. This is a stark contrast to the majority of IMAX theaters, which rely on digital systems projecting at lower 2K or 4K resolutions and crop the image to a wider 1.90:1 ratio [2, 3].
The high cost of producing each IMAX 70mm print—estimated at around $80,000—adds to the exclusivity of the format [3]. The Odyssey's overall production budget was approximately $250 million, and it required a uniquely heavy 200 kg IMAX camera called the Keighley Film Camera developed specifically for the film [1, 3].
Ticket prices for IMAX digital screenings generally run about twice as much as regular cinema tickets, and with only a few theaters able to screen the complete 70mm version, many viewers will only see cropped digital versions at local cinemas [1]. This has sparked backlash, with critics arguing the format creates an elitist experience accessible to few. Harsh Tiwari said, "Creating a film in a format that most people can never experience as intended is not how an auteur of world cinema should work," and CinemaRythmes commented, "This isn’t fair. Only a few people will get to experience Nolan’s true vision." [1]
Six different premium large format options are available for The Odyssey, each offering varied aspect ratios and viewing experiences to audiences worldwide [2]. According to James Hyder, "This all started in 2008 when IMAX introduced its first digital system," underscoring the evolving technology behind cinema presentation [2].
The Odyssey's release on August 12 marks a landmark moment for film technology, with screenings ongoing among the limited theaters equipped for the prestigious 70mm IMAX prints [1, 2].
