Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' eyes $200M+ global opening as box office projections soar

Early projections put The Odyssey on track for a $200M+ global debut

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is shaping up to be one of 2026's biggest theatrical releases, with early box office projections pointing to a blockbuster opening weekend.

According to the latest estimates, the mythological epic is expected to earn between $90 million and $100 million in North America during its opening weekend, with its worldwide debut projected to surpass $200 million. Some forecasts suggest the film could open with more than $100 million domestically and over $220 million globally if current momentum continues.

Much of the film's early demand has been driven by premium-format screenings. The Odyssey is the first major feature filmed entirely with IMAX cameras, and many 70mm IMAX showings have reportedly sold out ahead of its July 17 release.

The strong projections follow the massive success of Nolan's Oscar-winning Oppenheimer, raising expectations for what is also his most expensive film to date, with a reported production budget of around $250 million. If the movie meets or exceeds forecasts and benefits from positive audience word of mouth, it could become one of the highest-grossing films of 2026.

Based on Homer's ancient Greek epic, The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and features an ensemble cast that includes Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal and Benny Safdie. The film is scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 17.