Christopher Nolan's film The Odyssey opened in theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus [1, 2, 3, 4]. The film earned $264.1 million globally in its first weekend, including $124.5 million in the US and Canada and $139.6 million internationally [1, 3, 4]. IMAX screenings contributed nearly $30 million domestically and $22 million internationally, making up about 23-24% of the domestic gross [1, 3].
The Odyssey had a production budget of approximately $250 million [1, 4]. It ranks as Nolan's third-highest opening weekend behind The Dark Knight Rises (2012) and The Dark Knight (2008) [1, 3, 4]. The cast also includes Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus, Lupita Nyong'o in dual roles as Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra, Robert Pattinson as Antinous, Elliot Page as Sinon, and Zendaya as Athena [5, 2, 4].
The film features mythological creatures and addresses themes of war, PTSD, and homecoming [2, 6, 7]. Nolan emphasized a theatrical viewing experience by using IMAX cameras and practical effects, which IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond credited with helping turn the film into a "massive cultural event" [1, 3]. Universal Pictures president Jim Orr said, "There’s just palpable excitement across the domestic market this weekend for The Odyssey" [1]. Paul Dergarabedian, head of marketplace trends at Rentrak, added, "Modern audiences should not be underestimated on their knowledge of film and film-makers. And that passion they have for film is manifest in their devotion to Christopher Nolan" [1].
Before release, the film faced criticism over casting and diversity from right-wing commentators, which Nolan dismissed as irrelevant to understanding the film itself, saying, "These conversations that happen before people see the film — they’re always irrelevant" [8, 4].
The Odyssey's IMAX exclusivity is planned to run for about three weeks to maintain the event-cinema status [3]. Digital release for rental and purchase is expected about five to six weeks after the theatrical premiere, likely around November 2026, followed by Blu-ray and DVD a few weeks later [9].
