Christopher Nolan is set to make waves in the film industry with his upcoming adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey, which will make cinematic history by being the first major Hollywood feature filmed entirely with IMAX film cameras. Scheduled for release in July 2026, the project has already garnered attention for its ambitious scale, with Nolan revealing that over two million feet of film were used during a shoot that lasted 91 days.
In an interview with Empire magazine, Nolan shared insights into the extensive filming process, which took place largely at sea. He emphasized the importance of authenticity, stating, “We really wanted to capture how hard those journeys would have been for people,” reflecting the struggles faced by Odysseus and his crew in their epic journey. The director expressed his commitment to immersing the cast in the real coastal environments associated with the tale, enhancing the narrative’s depth.
Financially, the project is significant as well. According to Variety, the cost of the raw film stock amounts to approximately $3 million, based on Kodak’s pricing for 65mm film. Historically, Nolan has been known for his dedication to IMAX technology, utilizing it in previous works like The Dark Knight, Interstellar, and Oppenheimer. Despite past challenges associated with the size and noise of IMAX cameras, advancements have led to improvements, notably the introduction of a new camera housing called the “blimp.”
This innovation addresses issues with sound recording, allowing for clearer dialogue capture even in intimate scenes. Nolan remarked, “The blimp system is a game-changer,” highlighting its potential to enhance emotional performances captured in stunning IMAX format. Cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema further showcased the capabilities of the new cameras by sharing a touching moment of filming a child reciting David Bowie’s “Sound and Vision,” demonstrating the sophisticated union of image and sound.
As audiences eagerly await the release of The Odyssey, the combination of Nolan’s visionary storytelling and cutting-edge technology promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience that pays homage to the epic tale while pushing the boundaries of film production.