Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey has quickly become the movie everyone is talking about this summer. It brings Homer’s timeless tale of Odysseus to life with sweeping visuals and an emotional core that feels both classic and surprisingly fresh. With Matt Damon as the battle-worn hero, Anne Hathaway as the determined Penelope, and Tom Holland as their hopeful son Telemachus, the film aims directly for the heart while delivering grand-scale adventure.

One of the biggest reasons so many people are eager to see The Odyssey is the way it was made and the way Nolan hopes you will watch it. The filmmaker designed this movie for the largest screens and the most immersive presentation. That means IMAX, and more specifically, 70mm IMAX. This film format offers extraordinary clarity, detail, and a sense of presence that standard screenings simply cannot match. The catch is that relatively few theaters can project true 70mm IMAX, so knowing exactly where it is playing can save you time and guarantee the experience Nolan intended.

If you are considering a special trip for this one, you are not alone. Many moviegoers are traveling a bit farther than usual to secure a 70mm IMAX showing. Below, you will find where you can catch The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX in the United States and around the world, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. The goal is to make everything easy to understand, comfortable to plan, and worth your time.

Why this 70mm IMAX release matters

The Odyssey has been widely celebrated for being presented in 70mm IMAX, a format known for its remarkable size and detail. Christopher Nolan has used IMAX cameras before to powerful effect, including unforgettable sequences in The Dark Knight and Oppenheimer, but The Odyssey leans even more fully into the large-format approach. The result is a visual and sonic scale that wraps around you, pulling you into Odysseus’ world—the thunder of the sea, the intimacy of the home he longs to return to, and the vastness of the landscapes he journeys across.

Watching in 70mm IMAX is not just about a bigger image. The larger film frame captures more information, which translates to richer textures, more lifelike motion, and a depth that often feels three-dimensional even without special glasses. If you have not seen a film this way in some time—or have never seen one at all—The Odyssey is a perfect entry point. It makes the ancient tale feel immediate and, at times, astonishingly real.

Because the equipment required to project 70mm IMAX is rare and maintenance-intensive, only a limited number of theaters worldwide can offer it. That scarcity is part of the excitement—there is a sense of occasion to these showings. The trade-off is that tickets can sell quickly, and schedules may be limited, so planning ahead will help.

Where you can see The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX in the United States

Several notable venues across the United States are presenting The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX. In California, you can experience it at TCL Chinese Theater IMAX in Hollywood, a landmark known for decades of movie history. Southern Californians also have Regal Irvine Spectrum 21 + IMAX in Irvine, a popular destination with robust picture and sound. Northern California audiences can head to Esquire IMAX in Sacramento, a longtime favorite for large-format screenings.

In the Midwest, the IMAX Theatre at Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis is hosting 70mm IMAX presentations, offering a carefully calibrated, museum-quality projection environment. For those in or near Michigan, the Chrysler IMAX Dome Theatre at the Michigan Science Center in Detroit is another option. The dome setting delivers a unique wraparound sensation that can be especially thrilling in large-format titles like this.

On the East Coast, Providence Place Cinemas 16 and IMAX in Providence, Rhode Island, is running 70mm IMAX engagements. If you live within driving distance, this can be an excellent choice for a day trip. And in the South, the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX in Chattanooga is showing The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX, giving regional audiences a convenient way to catch the premium presentation without traveling too far.

Before you go, consider checking the showtime descriptions at the box office or within the theater’s app to confirm the exact format. Listings can sometimes include several different IMAX variations in a single day, and you want to be sure the screening you select specifically states 70mm IMAX. When in doubt, a quick call to the theater can provide peace of mind.

Where you can see The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX around the world

If you are outside the United States—or traveling internationally—there are several excellent large-format destinations to choose from. In London, the BFI IMAX at the British Film Institute is hosting The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX. This venue is famous for its massive screen and careful projection standards. Also in London, The Ronson Theatre at the Science Museum is presenting the film in 70mm IMAX, which means Londoners have two strong options within the city.

On the continent, Kinepolis Brussels in Belgium is showing The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX, offering a central European hub for film lovers who want the full experience. In France, Pathe Odysseum in Montpellier is on board as well, making it a great choice for audiences in the south of the country. The IMAX Theatre at Palac Flora in Prague, Czech Republic, is another key location, serving viewers across Central and Eastern Europe with true 70mm IMAX projection.

In Canada, Kramer IMAX at the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Regina, SK, is screening the film in 70mm IMAX. For many in the region, this is the most convenient way to enjoy Nolan’s preferred format without a major trip across provinces.

Because international bookings can shift, it can be helpful to verify which showings are explicitly 70mm IMAX rather than digital IMAX. Theater websites sometimes list both. If you are traveling, consider building a little extra time into your schedule so you can pick up tickets early, settle in comfortably, and avoid any last-minute stress.

How to choose the best seat for 70mm IMAX

Picking the right seat can make a big difference in how you experience a 70mm IMAX screening. As a general rule, aim for the middle rows both horizontally and vertically. This gives you a centered view that captures the entire height and width of the image without requiring you to tilt your head or dart your eyes too far left and right. If you prefer a little extra legroom or easier access to the aisle, consider a seat just off center, where you still keep the benefits of a balanced perspective while enjoying more space and freedom to move.

For very large IMAX screens, the first several rows can feel overwhelming. Sitting slightly farther back often provides a more natural view and helps you appreciate the full composition of each shot. If you wear glasses, bringing them in a case can help protect them while you get settled, and a lens wipe in your pocket can ensure the crisp picture looks its best.

Comfort and accessibility tips to make your visit smooth

Large-format movies can run long and feel intense, so a bit of planning can keep the experience comfortable from start to finish. Arrive early to find parking and navigate the lobby without rushing. If you prefer to sit near the aisle, choose your seats ahead of time so you can stretch your legs during the film without disturbing others. For anyone sensitive to loud soundtracks, carrying a small pair of soft earplugs can take the edge off the volume while still allowing you to hear dialogue and music clearly.

Many theaters offer assistive listening devices and, in some cases, closed-caption options. If you benefit from either, ask at the box office or guest services desk a few minutes before showtime. Keeping a bottle of water in a cup holder can help if the air conditioning runs cool, and a light sweater or jacket is wise for temperature swings between the lobby and auditorium.

Plan a quick restroom break right before showtime and consider a smaller drink if you want to avoid missing a scene. Because 70mm IMAX screenings are relatively rare, you may find a lively crowd; getting there early lets you settle in, glance at the screen height, and make any last-minute adjustments before the lights dim.

Is The Odyssey worth seeing?

Short answer: yes. As of Friday, July 17, The Odyssey is holding a remarkable 96 percent critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is an impressive achievement for any film, let alone a big-budget epic with a reported $250 million price tag. For comparison, Nolan’s previous film, Oppenheimer, earned a 93 percent score across hundreds of reviews and went on to become a cultural event in its own right. Early reactions to The Odyssey highlight its emotional pull, rhythmic pacing, and the sheer grandeur of its visuals.

Beyond the numbers, this is the kind of large-scale filmmaking many movie fans miss: serious, stirring storytelling without leaning on superheroes or magical worlds. Nolan’s name alone can draw a crowd, but what keeps people talking is how he balances action with heart. If you have been waiting for a reason to return to the theater in a big way, The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX is a strong invitation.

What to know before you buy tickets

When purchasing, look specifically for showtimes labeled 70mm IMAX. The wording matters. Listings that simply say IMAX or IMAX with Laser may not be the same as 70mm IMAX, and the presentation can differ. If your local ticketing site is unclear, a short phone call to the box office can clear things up quickly. Most theaters are used to these questions and are happy to confirm the exact format.

If you are flexible, weekday matinees can be less crowded and sometimes easier on the wallet. For evenings and weekends, plan ahead—70mm IMAX screenings often sell out. If you are traveling from out of town, try to arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes early so you can find your seat, adjust your coat or sweater, and get comfortable before the trailers begin.

Refund and exchange policies vary. If your plans might change, take a moment to review the theater’s policy at checkout. Some locations allow exchanges up to a certain time before the show, which can be helpful if you are coordinating with family or friends.

What sets 70mm IMAX apart from standard screenings

The difference begins with the film itself. A 70mm IMAX print is physically larger than standard formats, capturing more visual information in every frame. On screen, that translates to an image that is both sharper and more textured. Fine details—grain in wood, salt spray on the sea, the weave in a costume—become more visible and lifelike. Motion also looks smoother, giving action scenes a grounded, tactile feel.

Sound is another factor. IMAX theaters use powerful, precisely tuned audio systems that bring out the low rumbles and soaring highs without losing the clarity of human voices. In The Odyssey, that means the rush of the wind, the crash of waves, and the subtleties of a whispered promise are all part of the experience. If you sometimes find dialogue hard to hear in modern blockbusters, the focused sound design here can be a welcome change.

Aspect ratio—the shape of the image—also plays a role. Many of Nolan’s IMAX scenes expand vertically to fill more of the screen, allowing for towering vistas and head-to-toe compositions that would otherwise be cropped. The result is a grander sense of space, which suits an epic journey filled with challenges, detours, and hard-won returns.

Planning a visit with family or friends

Seeing The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX can be a lovely outing, especially if you make an event of it. Consider having an early dinner nearby to avoid the last-minute snack rush. If you are attending with someone who has mobility needs, call ahead to confirm accessible seating options and where the closest parking is located. Many theaters allow you to wait in a designated area while the rest of your party picks up concessions, so no one has to stand in a long line if that is uncomfortable.

Splitting popcorn and drinks can be simpler than juggling several items in the dark. If you like a quieter environment, choose an earlier showtime when crowds may be smaller. And if you enjoy discussing the movie afterward, plan a short walk or a coffee nearby. The conversation can be as memorable as the film itself.

United States 70mm IMAX locations, summarized in plain language

If you are in California, you have three strong choices: TCL Chinese Theater IMAX in Hollywood, Regal Irvine Spectrum 21 + IMAX in Irvine, and Esquire IMAX in Sacramento. Farther east, Indianapolis has the IMAX Theatre at Indiana State Museum, and Detroit offers the Chrysler IMAX Dome Theatre at the Michigan Science Center. New England audiences can look to Providence Place Cinemas 16 and IMAX in Providence, Rhode Island. In the South, Tennessee Aquarium IMAX in Chattanooga is showing the film as well. Each venue presents the film in the full 70mm IMAX format, so you can expect a showcase of picture and sound no matter which you choose.

International 70mm IMAX locations, also in plain language

In London, both the BFI IMAX at the British Film Institute and The Ronson Theatre at the Science Museum are presenting The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX. Elsewhere in Europe, you can see it at Kinepolis Brussels in Belgium, Pathe Odysseum in Montpellier, France, and the IMAX Theatre at Palac Flora in Prague, Czech Republic. In Canada, Kramer IMAX at the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Regina, SK, is also screening the film. If you live near any of these locations—or plan to travel—you can catch the film the way Nolan intended.

Frequently asked questions answered simply

If you are wondering whether you will notice the difference between 70mm IMAX and a regular digital screening, the answer is almost certainly yes. The picture looks larger, clearer, and more detailed, and the sound is more finely tuned. For those concerned about long runtimes, planning a bathroom break right before the movie starts is usually enough; the pacing in The Odyssey makes the time feel well spent.

If you wear hearing aids, check with guest services when you arrive to see whether assistive listening devices or caption options are available. Many theaters provide them, and they can make dialogue easier to follow without raising the volume too high. If you have sensitive eyes, giving yourself a moment to adjust to the screen’s brightness at the start can be helpful. A seat a little farther back may feel more comfortable as well.

If mobility is a concern, ask a staff member for the simplest path to your seat. Theaters are accustomed to helping guests find accessible routes, and a quick question at the entrance can save time. If you are meeting friends, share your seat numbers and aim to arrive a few minutes early so everyone can settle in without rushing.

Final pointers before you head out

Double-check that your showtime is labeled 70mm IMAX to get the exact presentation described here. Consider bringing a light sweater, a small pack of tissues, and earplugs if loud moments bother you. If you are traveling to a theater you have not visited before, map your route in advance and leave a cushion of extra time for traffic or parking. If you enjoy a quieter crowd, early shows during the week can be a delight; for more energy and applause, weekend evenings are hard to beat.

Above all, enjoy the event. The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX is not just a movie; it is a shared, big-screen experience. From the shock of the first wave to the quiet of a home longed for, the film embraces the scale of human endurance and love. When the lights rise, you may find yourself wanting to talk it through—what you saw, what you felt, and how the ancient story resonates now.

In closing

If you can make it to a 70mm IMAX theater, The Odyssey rewards the effort. Whether you choose the historic TCL Chinese Theater IMAX in Hollywood, the immersive dome in Detroit, the well-loved venues in Providence or Chattanooga, or the landmark auditoriums in London, Brussels, Montpellier, Prague, or Regina, you will be treated to a presentation built for awe. Plan ahead, pick comfortable seats, and give yourself a few extra minutes to settle. Then let the film carry you—across seas, through storms, and back home again.