Nolan's 'Odiseea' draws thousands to Prague for rare IMAX 70mm screenings

Europe's film enthusiasts are making long journeys to experience Christopher Nolan's "Odiseea" in its original IMAX 70mm format. A cinema in Prague has emerged as a prime destination for this unique cinematic event, drawing crowds from across the continent.

Only six cinemas in Europe are equipped for IMAX 70mm projections, with locations in England, Belgium, France, and the Czech Republic. The Cinema City venue in Prague has seen a surge in demand, attracting over 22,000 international visitors by late July and screening the film up to five times daily. This popularity is attributed to Prague's accessibility and more affordable travel and lodging options compared to other European cities.

Italian cinema Arcadia also reported selling over 9,000 tickets for "Odiseea" in its original 70mm format, with audiences traveling from across Italy and other European nations, as well as a smaller contingent from outside Europe. The 70mm film format involves large reels that require careful assembly, a process demanding high precision and specialized equipment to prevent damage.

"Odiseea," starring Matt Damon as Odysseus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope, has garnered widespread critical acclaim. The film achieved a global opening weekend box office of $264 million and boasts a 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its strong reception among viewers.