If you thought movie lovers were done seeking out massive, larger-than-life cinematic events on the big screen, think again. Christopher Nolan’s mythic action epic The Odyssey is proving to be a massive box office draw. Furthermore, audiences are going to extraordinary lengths to experience it in its intended format: glorious 70mm film.
Leading the charge nationwide is Glendale, California’s historic ALEX Theatre. The iconic movie palace underwent a full cinema system upgrade to install 70mm film projectors. And it announced it has emerged as the highest-grossing theater in the U.S. for 70mm presentations of the blockbuster film.
Due to overwhelming local and regional demand, the ALEX Theatre has extended its special engagement by at least two additional weeks. Specifically with screenings now running through August 20, 2026.
A Historic Return to First-Run Cinema
The triumph marks a major milestone for the landmark venue, which first opened its doors in 1925. Presenting The Odyssey—which began its engagement on July 17—represented the ALEX Theatre’s return to first-run studio cinema for the first time in over 35 years.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the people of Los Angeles and to film lovers from across Southern California for making our presentation of The Odyssey in 70mm such an extraordinary success,” said Miles Williams, Artistic Director of the ALEX Theatre. “The response from audiences has been overwhelming and a wonderful reminder of how much people still value the shared experience of seeing a great film together.”
The success at the ALEX highlights a growing trend among moviegoers seeking premium. Emphatically event-driven theatrical outings that cannot be replicated on a living room television or streaming service.
Star-Studded Cast Meets Groundbreaking Tech
Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s foundational saga features a star-studded cast led by:
- Matt Damon as Odysseus, King of Ithaca
- Anne Hathaway as Penelope
- Tom Holland as Telemachus
- Zendaya as the goddess Athena
- Lupita Nyong’o in dual roles as Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra
- Robert Pattinson, Samantha Morton, John Leguizamo, and Charlize Theron
Shot around the globe, The Odyssey holds the distinction of being the first feature film ever shot entirely with 65mm 15-perf large format film cameras using brand-new IMAX® technology, making the 70mm physical film screenings a must-see event for cinephiles.
How to Get Tickets
For moviegoers in Southern California looking to catch the film in its full 70mm glory, tickets for the extended screenings through August 20 are available now directly at thealex.com.
