Just 41 Cinemas Worldwide Screen ‘The Odyssey’ in Its Original Format – Discover the Two London Locations

Christopher Nolan’s grand cinematic interpretation of The Odyssey is set to be one of the most anticipated films of 2026, with only 41 cinemas worldwide capable of screening it as the director intended. Among these exclusive venues, just two are situated in London. The film features a remarkable cast, including Matt Damon as Odysseus and Anne Hathaway as his wife, Penelope, supported by stars such as Tom Holland, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Robert Pattinson, and Lupita Nyong’o. Scheduled for release in UK cinemas on Friday, July 17, the film is expected to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience.

Unique Screening Experience

Nolan has long been an advocate for the IMAX 1570 film format, renowned for its unparalleled resolution. Named for its 70mm film stock and the 15 perforations on each frame, this format is increasingly rare, with many cinemas transitioning to digital technologies over the past decade. The Odyssey is notable for being the first feature film entirely shot using 1570 cameras. This ambitious project required meticulous planning, as the cameras are not only heavy and cumbersome but also necessitate frequent reloading. The film stock had to be replaced every three minutes during shooting, which took place across stunning locations such as Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, Iceland, Western Sahara, and Malta, alongside the Universal Studios Lot in Los Angeles.

To enhance the filming process, Nolan worked with IMAX engineers to create a soundproofing ‘blimp’ for the 180kg camera, making it sufficiently quiet for capturing dialogue. This innovative approach marked a significant milestone in filmmaking, though it also highlights the challenges associated with utilising such outdated technology.

The Epic Tale of Odysseus

The Odyssey delves into the ancient narrative of Odysseus, the heroic king of Ithaca and central figure in Homer’s epic poem. The film recounts his arduous journey home following the Trojan War, highlighting his encounters with mythical beings, including the Cyclops Polyphemus, the Sirens, and the enchanting nymph Calypso. Driven by an unwavering desire to reunite with Penelope, Odysseus faces numerous trials over a span of twenty years, during which his crew perishes, and he is presumed dead. Meanwhile, Penelope and their son, Telemachus, contend with persistent suitors vying for her hand in marriage.

Nolan’s Cinematic Legacy

As one of the most acclaimed filmmakers of the 21st century, Nolan’s impressive portfolio includes masterpieces such as Inception, Oppenheimer, Dunkirk, The Dark Knight trilogy, and Memento. He has received eight Academy Award nominations, winning Best Picture and Best Director for his compelling biographical thriller, Oppenheimer. The Odyssey promises to be another landmark achievement in his career.

London’s Exclusive Venues

For audiences eager to experience The Odyssey on the 1570 format, London offers only two cinemas equipped for this purpose. The British Film Institute’s venue, located near Waterloo Station, boasts the largest screen in the UK, measuring 20 metres high and 26 metres wide, with a capacity of 500 seats and a powerful 14,000W digital surround sound system, ensuring an immersive cinematic experience. The IMAX at the Science Museum in South Kensington, known as The Ronson Theatre, is another prime location, featuring a capacity of 400 seats and a colossal screen measuring 24.3 metres wide by 16.8 metres high, displaying an immersive 1.43:1 aspect ratio that presents up to 40% more image than traditional cinemas. Film enthusiasts are thus encouraged to secure their tickets early to witness this remarkable film as envisioned by Nolan.