Universal brings Nolan's 'The Odyssey' back to 1,000 screens in December

Universal Pictures will reinstate Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' in North American cinemas on Dec. 11. The studio plans to place the film in more than 1,000 theaters across the country. This rerelease will include all projection formats, specifically IMAX and IMAX 70mm.

This move positions the film for consideration during the upcoming Academy Awards nominations cycle. The reissue follows an extended run in 70mm IMAX theaters that concluded in September. By bringing the film back just as awards season intensifies, Universal aims to refresh voter interest in the production.

Since its initial release on July 17, the movie has generated $626 million in domestic ticket sales. Its global box office total has reached $1.8 billion. These figures make 'The Odyssey' the highest-grossing R-rated film in history. It is also the first feature shot entirely with IMAX cameras.

The cast includes Matt Damon as Odysseus, Robert Pattinson, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron. The narrative follows the Greek hero's decade-long voyage home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. His journey is marked by interruptions while he attempts to return to his wife, Penelope, and his son, Telemachus, who defends their home from rival suitors.

The film's commercial performance has already established it as a major studio tentpole. The December reissue serves a dual purpose: it extends the theatrical lifecycle of a proven moneymaker and provides a platform for the film to compete against other contenders in the awards race.