Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, filmed entirely on IMAX cameras for what is believed to be the first time in cinema history, has left fans across the UK grappling with a logistical challenge: only three cinemas in the country can screen the film in its intended 70mm IMAX format. Two are in London, and one is at Manchester Printworks, leaving millions of fans far from a qualifying screen.
One Fan's Epic Journey
For many, the answer was simple—make the trip regardless. Cerys, a Newcastle-based content creator and lifelong cinema enthusiast, thought nothing of a five-hour journey to the BFI IMAX in London to experience the film in its full glory. But after a second viewing back home in Newcastle—this time in 35mm at the Tyneside Cinema—her verdict on the two formats was surprising.
She said: "I have now seen The Odyssey in both IMAX 70mm and the smaller 35mm format and I think both have differing benefits. If you can't see it in 70mm and you're worried about missing something, I'm here to explain why there are other benefits to different formats."
How Screen Format Changes the Story
Cerys noted that the major difference between the two viewings was how the loss of screen size altered her interpretation of the story. "The first time I saw it in 70mm, I found myself more focused on the spectacle, which was astonishing, but seeing it in a smaller format allowed me to focus more on the story, which enriched my understanding," she explained. "There were a lot of nuances I definitely missed the first time because I was so wrapped up in the scale. In 35mm, my focus was more on the plot, the dialogue, and the characters."
Boasting a stellar cast including Zendaya, Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Travis Scott, and Anne Hathaway, The Odyssey weaves together three interlinked storylines: Odysseus's decade-long voyage home from the Trojan War, his son Telemachus's search for him, and a father-son revenge plot. On its opening weekend, the film took the global box office by storm, earning $264 million.
Aesthetic Differences and Recommendations
Cerys also highlighted aesthetic differences. "Both looked gorgeous, but the grainier, timeless look of 35mm really enhanced the timelessness of this story and solidified that this film will stand the test of time. That was my favourite part about seeing it in 35mm, whereas the 70mm IMAX looked brighter, which added to the spectacle."
She concluded: "I personally think it's worth seeing in any and all formats. Seeing it in 70mm IMAX was a phenomenal experience I would definitely recommend. It really is great seeing it how it was meant to be seen, but if you can't, other options are pretty great too."
