gg2
The Odyssey
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Nolan's The Odyssey has grossed $1.55 billion, the top R-rated film ever.
Its IMAX 70mm run is extended through September 2026.
Background
Christopher Nolan's adaptation of Homer's epic poem, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, became a global box office phenomenon this summer. It is the first theatrical feature shot entirely with IMAX cameras and the highest-grossing IMAX release of all time at $457 million. Universal Pictures and Nolan extended its IMAX 70mm run into an 11th week, and the film helped drive July and August to the two highest-grossing months in IMAX history.
How it unfolded
- recentlyThe Odyssey opened to $264.1M globally, the biggest start ever for Nolan, with an international opening of $139.6M.
- Sep 4, 2026The film crossed $1 billion at the international box office, becoming the first Hollywood non-sequel and non-remake to reach that threshold since 2009's Avatar.
- Sep 6, 2026Universal and Nolan officially extended the IMAX 70mm run through the end of September 2026, stretching it into an 11th week.
- Sep 11, 2026The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day were reported to have propelled a record-breaking summer box office worldwide.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Deadline reports the film is the first Hollywood non-sequel and non-remake to cross $1 billion overseas since 2009's Avatar.
- Critics
- The Collegian's review says Nolan changed the classic story enough to give it freshness, with an excellent cast and beautiful cinematography.
- Critics
- The Collegian notes Nolan attempts neither historical accuracy nor close adherence to the original themes, to the chagrin of some history buffs and online critics.
- Commentators
- A China US Focus column says the film's discussion goes beyond the movie, using an ancient Greek story to revisit war, peace, civilization and barbarism.