17 July,2026 01:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
A still from The Odyssey (Picture via Special Arrangement)
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is gearing up for a spectacular start at the Indian box office, with advance bookings indicating massive excitement among moviegoers. The epic fantasy adventure, which marks the first feature film to be shot entirely using IMAX cameras, has already generated tremendous buzz following its acclaimed world premieres, where critics praised Nolan's ambitious adaptation of Homer's timeless Greek epic.
The anticipation in India has been equally impressive. Advance ticket bookings for The Odyssey opened on June 8, more than a month ahead of its July 17 theatrical release, reflecting the immense demand for Nolan's latest cinematic spectacle. With tickets selling rapidly across major cities, the film is now expected to open bigger than the director's Oscar-winning blockbuster Oppenheimer in the country.
Despite being an international release, ticket pricing has been on par with major Indian tentpole films. In Mumbai, ticket prices currently range from Rs 150 to Rs 3,100, catering to audiences across formats. The most expensive ticket is for the IMAX screening at Phoenix Palladium, where moviegoers are paying as much as Rs 3,100 for the premium cinematic experience. Several IMAX shows have already witnessed strong occupancy, with many screenings filling up well before release day.
The film's momentum in India has also been boosted by Christopher Nolan's promotional visit to the country alongside lead actors Matt Damon and Tom Holland. Their visit created significant excitement among fans and cinephiles, adding to the already soaring anticipation surrounding the film. Industry observers believe the promotional campaign has played a key role in strengthening the film's advance booking numbers.
Written and directed by Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, the legendary Greek king of Ithaca, whose dangerous and emotionally charged journey home begins after the end of the Trojan War. The film follows his encounters with mythical creatures, impossible challenges and personal sacrifices as he struggles to reunite with his family.
Anne Hathaway plays Penelope, Odysseus' devoted wife, while the ensemble cast also includes Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Samantha Morton, Zendaya and Charlize Theron in pivotal roles.
Early reviews from international critics have hailed the film as another visually stunning achievement from Nolan, applauding its scale, performances and breathtaking IMAX cinematography. With glowing word of mouth, packed advance bookings and premium-format demand, The Odyssey appears set for a thunderous opening in India, potentially surpassing the opening-day collections of Oppenheimer and further cementing Christopher Nolan's popularity among Indian audiences.
