Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' gallops to a muscular $120 million in its box office opening, marking a significant achievement for the director and Universal Pictures. This star-studded adaptation of the Greek classical mythological tale, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, has fended off competition with $51.2 million on Friday from 3,900 North American screens, including Thursday previews. With an A CinemaScore from audiences, the film is on track to surpass $120 million, making it the biggest live-action opening of 2026 and the top R-rated opening of the year. Globally, it's headed for $257.8 million over the summer weekend, with $137.3 million from 73 international markets.
This impressive start is even more notable considering the film's $250 million production budget. The studio's initial target was a domestic opening in the mid-$80 million to $100 million range, so the actual performance is a significant win. Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron also star in this epic tale of Odysseus's journey home after the Trojan War. Nolan and Emma Thomas produce for Syncopy.
'The Odyssey' is set to notch the third-biggest opening weekend domestically of Nolan's career, with the best outside of the Batman franchise. It's also on track to become the biggest global opening for Nolan, surpassing 'The Dark Knight Rises'. The film's success is further bolstered by its strong reviews, with a 95% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, the best of Nolan's career. The Odyssey is also 'verified hot' with a 97% audience score.
One unique aspect of the film is that it was the first feature to be shot entirely on IMAX cameras, catering to moviegoers' preferences for premium large formats. This has attracted cinephiles to the 25 U.S. theaters screening IMAX 70mm film.
In contrast, Disney's live-action 'Moana' is expected to dock in second place, with a disappointing opening and a decline of around 56% in its second weekend. Dwayne Johnson-led feature is heading for $5.8 million on Friday and roughly $19 million for the weekend.
Nolan's 'The Odyssey' is a testament to his box office prowess and his ability to craft visually stunning and critically acclaimed films. With its strong opening and positive reception, it's likely to continue its successful ride, solidifying Nolan's place as one of the most influential directors in the industry.
