Only 40 Theaters Worldwide Can Show Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ Vision

Christopher Nolan has dedicated years to pushing the limits of IMAX technology, and his latest film, ‘The Odyssey’, takes that passion to an unprecedented level. With the release just around the corner, discussions among film enthusiasts have shifted from the narrative to the technical aspects of this exclusive presentation.

The focus is on the limited number of venues capable of showcasing the film as Nolan envisioned. For a director who emphasizes the importance of theatrical experiences, this release may epitomize that philosophy.

Fewer than 40 theaters globally can project ‘The Odyssey’ in its authentic 15 perforation 70mm IMAX format, which captures every detail that Nolan and cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema filmed. In other locations, audiences will view a version that crops or compresses parts of the original image.

This scarcity is due to the size and complexity of the format. The 15/70 IMAX film frame measures 70mm by 48.5mm, nearly nine times larger than standard 35mm film, providing a resolution between 16K and 18K—far exceeding what even the best digital systems can replicate. The screens that can properly display this format are massive, often around 59 by 79 feet, and are shaped more like squares than the typical wide rectangles.

Nolan has expressed why this level of fidelity is crucial to him. He referred to IMAX 15/70 as the highest quality imaging format ever created, noting that nothing else can match the detail of a properly exposed and projected large negative, as he explained in an interview on CBS’s 60 Minutes. His enthusiasm for this format is evident, as he even urged IMAX to develop quieter cameras to ensure the film could be shot without compromising audio quality.

In the U.S., approximately 30 theaters are equipped for true 70mm IMAX projection, with Canada contributing around nine more and a few additional locations internationally, totaling under 40 worldwide. Notable venues include the TCL Chinese Theatre and Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles, AMC Lincoln Square in New York City, and the BFI IMAX in London, all recognized for their historical significance and technical capabilities.

For those unable to reach one of these venues, the next best option is standard IMAX with laser projection, which offers a slightly less expansive 1.90 to 1 aspect ratio, followed by traditional 70mm film projection and standard digital formats. Each step away from true 15/70 IMAX results in a loss of resolution, aspect ratio, and the unique film grain that Nolan strives to preserve.

Maintaining this experience has proven costly for the theaters involved. Individual 70mm IMAX prints of the film reportedly cost around $80,000 to produce, and some venues have had to invest significantly to restore dormant film projectors, including purchasing specialized humidifiers to keep physical prints in optimal condition.

Given the limited access to true 70mm screenings, it’s no surprise that tickets for many of these premium showings sold out almost instantly, with some locations fully booked as far as eight months in advance. This demand highlights how dedicated cinephiles are willing to go to experience the format that Nolan deems essential for his film.

With ‘The Odyssey’ set to open everywhere on July 17, most audiences will still have the chance to see the film in some form of IMAX, Dolby, or standard theatrical presentation. However, for those seeking the exact vision that Nolan and his team crafted, locating one of these 40 theaters has already become part of the broader cultural conversation surrounding the film’s release.

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