Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey has opened in Australia to much hype and intense interest. The first film ever to be shot entirely on Imax film has prompted fans to go on their own epic journey – crossing oceans to see it at one of just 41 cinemas around the world equipped to screen it in its original 70mm format.
Epic journeys for a cinematic experience
Dedicated fans have traveled from as far as New Zealand and Japan to Australia to catch the film in its intended format. One fan reportedly flew from London to Sydney specifically for the screening. The limited availability of 70mm Imax projectors has turned the film into a global event, with screenings selling out weeks in advance.
Offscreen struggle for cinema industry
But as Homer’s Odyssey plays out onscreen, a struggle is happening offscreen too, with some saying this film could help the prospects of an ailing cinema industry trying to stay alive in an age of streaming. Reged Ahmad speaks to deputy culture editor Sian Cain on whether The Odyssey has the capacity to entice people away from their devices and back to the big screen.
Could this film be a turning point?
According to Sian Cain, the film represents a “test case” for whether premium large-format experiences can draw audiences away from streaming services. Cinema attendance has been declining globally, with many theaters struggling to compete with the convenience of home viewing. However, Nolan’s track record with Interstellar and Dunkirk has shown that event cinema can still generate significant box office revenue.
Global impact and future prospects
The film’s release has already boosted Imax stock prices by 5% in anticipation of strong ticket sales. If successful, it could encourage other directors to shoot in Imax and convince studios to invest more in theatrical releases. As Sian Cain notes, “The Odyssey might not single-handedly save cinema, but it could remind audiences of what they’re missing.”
Read more: Christopher Nolan fans are embarking on epic journeys to see The Odyssey the way he wants them to Composite: Universal Pictures
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