'The Odyssey' budget, cast salaries and IMAX debate explained ahead of release

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is set to hit theaters on July 17, 2026, and has already emerged as one of the year's biggest cinematic events.

Based on Homer's epic Greek poem, the film boasts a star-studded ensemble led by Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway and Zendaya. Alongside the excitement surrounding its release, the film has also sparked discussions over its reported budget, estimated cast salaries and the best way to experience it in theaters.

Reportedly made on a budget of around $250 million, The Odyssey is among the most expensive films of Nolan's career. The filmmaker has previously said the success of Oppenheimer gave him the opportunity to pursue the ambitious adaptation, which had been an idea he wanted to bring to the big screen for nearly two decades.

Although the figures have not been officially confirmed, reports suggest Matt Damon, who plays King Odysseus, earned around $15 million for the role. Tom Holland, who portrays Telemachus, is reportedly believed to have received $10 million, while Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron and Zendaya are each estimated to have earned between $5 million and $7 million. Supporting cast members, including Lupita Nyong'o, Benny Safdie, Mia Goth and Elliot Page, are reportedly in the $1 million to $2 million range.

Ahead of the film's release, another topic has dominated online discussions: its IMAX presentation. The Odyssey was shot using IMAX film cameras, with Nolan encouraging audiences to watch it in IMAX 70mm, the format he intended for the film. However, only around 40 to 41 theaters worldwide are equipped with IMAX 70mm projectors.

The limited availability has fueled debate among moviegoers, with some arguing that audiences watching the film in standard formats may not experience the full visual scope of Nolan's vision. Concerns over potential cropping and differences in aspect ratio have prompted discussions online about whether the film's intended presentation is accessible to most viewers.

Despite the debate, anticipation for The Odyssey remains exceptionally high, with the film expected to deliver one of the biggest global openings of Christopher Nolan's career.