Explained Christopher Nolan IMAX The Odyssey

The Odyssey IMAX is almost impossible to book right now, but don’t panic just yet

You've still got a chance

Hebe Hancock
21st July 2026, 12:52
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If you’ve tried getting tickets to see The Odyssey in IMAX recently, you’ve probably realised it’s easier said than done. Christopher Nolan’s latest film has sparked an enormous rush for IMAX 70mm screenings, with people travelling from all over the world to experience it exactly as the director intended.

Universal

The biggest demand has been at London’s BFI IMAX, where every available screening has now sold out through to mid September 10, and that’s currently the furthest ahead tickets can be booked. The hype has become so huge that some tickets have even appeared on eBay for more than £500.

The film’s opening run disappeared almost instantly too, with all 173 IMAX 70mm screenings throughout August and into September selling out within days.

There’s a reason tickets have been so hard to get. In the UK, only three cinemas are capable of showing The Odyssey in IMAX 70mm: The BFI IMAX, the Science Museum’s Ronson Theatre in London, and Vue Printworks IMAX in Manchester. Even where tickets are still available, they’re often limited to seats right at the front or edges of the auditorium.

Universal

Christopher Nolan has previously explained to AP exactly why he believes it’s worth the effort:

“The sharpness and the clarity and the depth of the image is unparalleled. The headline, for me, is: By shooting on IMAX 70mm film, you’re really letting the screen disappear.

“You’re getting a feeling of 3D without the glasses. You’ve got a huge screen, and you’re filling the peripheral vision of the audience. You’re immersing them in the world of the film.”

The good news is that this isn’t necessarily your only chance.

The BFI has confirmed that more screenings will be announced, so if you’re determined to watch The Odyssey in IMAX 70mm, it’s worth keeping an eye on future ticket releases rather than paying eye-watering resale prices.

If you don’t want to wait, the easiest option is simply to see The Odyssey in another format. Standard IMAX, Dolby Cinema and regular screenings are all still available at many cinemas across the UK, even if the ultra-rare IMAX 70mm experience is currently fully booked.

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Featured image credit: Universal