Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ Set for Major IMAX Release in China

Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ is poised to become one of the most significant IMAX events of the year, particularly in China. IMAX China is gearing up for a substantial release, anticipating that most of its nearly 800-screen network will showcase the film when it debuts in mainland China on August 14.

IMAX China CEO Daniel Manwaring shared with Variety that the excitement surrounding the movie has reached unprecedented levels. “I’m expecting a very large majority of our entire network, if not all of our network, that first week will be playing ‘The Odyssey,’” Manwaring stated.

The buzz has already prompted a significant promotional effort. Nolan and lead actor Matt Damon are scheduled to visit Beijing on July 30 for what Manwaring described as the first red carpet event for a commercial film at the China National Film Museum. This event will feature two screenings in Beijing, along with a special screening at an IMAX theater at Universal Beijing Resort.

According to Manwaring, fan interest has been remarkably strong. He mentioned to Variety that he has been inundated with daily inquiries from people eager for tickets. “We haven’t seen enthusiasm for a film like this in quite some time,” he remarked.

Early previews for the film are set to commence on August 1 and 2 in major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. While the film is expected to perform well, Manwaring believes its audience will differ from other major Hollywood releases. He characterized ‘The Odyssey’ as more appealing to first-tier cities, likening its potential audience to major markets such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago in the United States.

Interest has also surged on ticketing platforms. Data from Maoyan Pro indicates that ‘The Odyssey’ had already amassed over 252,000 “want to see” registrations by July 24, surpassing other upcoming imported films tracked by the service. The strongest interest has emerged from major cities and regular moviegoers.

A key factor behind this confidence is Nolan’s increasing popularity in China. Manwaring believes the director has cultivated one of the most dedicated fan bases in the country, stating “Nolan is so big in China, and his following is not just enormous but extremely sticky. These are fans that are lifelong… diehard.”

Nolan’s previous film, ‘Oppenheimer,’ has further solidified that connection. The film grossed nearly $20 million during its entire theatrical run in mainland China, with IMAX screenings contributing significantly to its earnings. Manwaring believes Nolan’s popularity has continued to rise, referring to it as “the Nolan effect” that has grown with each release.

The CEO also commended the scale of ‘The Odyssey’ itself, describing it as a unique blend of a legendary narrative and a filmmaker renowned for crafting monumental cinematic experiences. “We’re talking about one of the greatest poems ever made and told through the greatest filmmaker’s lens ever made,” he noted.

China’s IMAX audience is also known for their keen attention to technical details such as screen size and projection quality. Manwaring explained that Chinese moviegoers often research theater equipment and seek out the optimal viewing experience.

Looking beyond Nolan’s film, IMAX China anticipates a stronger second half of the year following a slower start in 2026. Upcoming releases like ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day,’ ‘Avengers: Doomsday,’ and the local hit ‘Kung Fu Soccer’ are expected to help revitalize business.

With immense fan interest, a vast IMAX rollout, and Nolan’s reputation on the rise, ‘The Odyssey’ is becoming one of the most eagerly awaited theatrical releases in China this year. For IMAX China, the film signifies more than just another blockbuster — it’s an opportunity to demonstrate why the big-screen experience remains vital.

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