Christopher Nolan's latest film, *The Odyssey*, has begun limited screenings in July 2026 [6] as the first feature shot entirely on 70mm IMAX film [1].
The release represents a significant technical milestone in cinema, as the film requires specific projection equipment that most modern theaters do not possess. Because Nolan chose this format to achieve a specific level of visual fidelity, the movie is only available in a handful of venues globally [1, 2].
Demand for the experience has been high, with opening 70mm IMAX screenings selling out in minutes [5]. Access to the film is restricted by the scarcity of compatible hardware. ABC News said only 40 IMAX screens worldwide can show *The Odyssey* as intended [1].
In the U.S., the availability is similarly constrained. Reports on the number of equipped U.S. theaters vary between 25 [4] and roughly 30 [3]. These venues include the Cinemark Seven Bridges in Woodridge, Illinois, and two locations in Tennessee [3, 4].
Outside the U.S., the Melbourne IMAX theatre in Australia is among the few venues equipped to handle the format [1]. The limited distribution has turned the film's release into a localized event, forcing audiences to travel to specific cities to see the work in its native resolution.
Nolan has historically championed film over digital projection. By shooting the entire production on 70mm IMAX, he has pushed the boundaries of the medium, creating a viewing experience that is physically tied to a dwindling number of analog-capable theaters.
“The Odyssey is the first feature film shot entirely on 70mm IMAX film”
The release of *The Odyssey* highlights a growing tension between cutting-edge cinematic artistry and the industry's shift toward digital standardization. By utilizing a format supported by fewer than 40 screens globally, Nolan is treating the cinema experience as a rare, destination-based event rather than a mass-market product, potentially influencing how future 'epic' films are distributed and preserved.
