Thousands of foreign visitors are traveling to Prague this month to see Christopher Nolan's new film "The Odyssey" in a rare format [2].
The surge in tourism highlights the growing demand for analog cinema experiences. As digital projection becomes the industry standard, the availability of high-fidelity 70mm film screenings has become a primary driver for specialized travel.
Prague operates one of only three 70mm IMAX screens in mainland Europe [1]. This technical rarity has turned the city into a destination for cinema enthusiasts, particularly those from other European countries who lack access to similar equipment in their own regions [2].
"The Odyssey" represents a technical milestone as the first feature film shot entirely with IMAX cameras [1]. Because the movie was captured specifically for this large-scale format, the 70mm projection offers a level of detail and scale that cannot be replicated in standard theaters.
The influx of visitors has been significant, with thousands of people arriving in the Czech Republic specifically for the screening [2]. This trend underscores the influence of Nolan's commitment to celluloid, as his preference for film over digital continues to shape how audiences consume his work.
While most modern cinemas rely on laser or digital projectors, the 70mm IMAX experience remains a physical process involving massive reels of film. The scarcity of these projectors across the continent has created a competitive environment for tickets in the few cities that still maintain the hardware [1].
“Prague operates one of only three 70mm IMAX screens in mainland Europe.”
The phenomenon demonstrates the 'eventization' of cinema, where the medium of delivery becomes as important as the content. By utilizing a format available in only a handful of locations, the film transforms a standard movie release into a destination tourism event, proving that a niche technical preference can drive significant international foot traffic and economic activity.
