The early figure places the film on track for a domestic opening between the mid-$80 million range and more than $100 million, while analysts expect its global debut to approach $200 million.
Christopher Nolan’s Epic Opens With Strong Early Box Office Momentum
The strong preview performance marks the first major box office test for Nolan since “Oppenheimer,” which became a global phenomenon in 2023. With a reported production budget of $250 million, “The Odyssey” enters theaters as one of the filmmaker’s largest and most expensive productions to date. Universal is counting on sustained audience interest over the weekend as the picture rolls out worldwide.
Based on Homer’s ancient Greek poem, “The Odyssey “follows Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he embarks on a perilous journey home after the Trojan War. His quest to return to Ithaca and reunite with his wife Penelope, portrayed by Anne Hathaway, unfolds through encounters with legendary creatures, hostile forces, and the lingering consequences of war. The ensemble cast also includes Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Samantha Morton, and John Leguizamo.
The title has also drawn attention for its technical achievements. Nolan became the first director to shoot an entire feature using IMAX 70 mm film cameras, a decision that has helped make premium format screenings one of the biggest attractions for moviegoers. Advance demand for IMAX presentations has been especially strong, with many screenings selling out well before release.
Early critical reception has further boosted the picture’s profile. “The Odyssey” currently holds a 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it the highest-rated movie of Nolan’s career on the review aggregator. Combined with its strong preview earnings and favorable opening weekend projections, the film begins its theatrical run with considerable momentum as it aims to become another major box office success for the Academy Award-winning filmmaker.