Fans of Christopher Nolan are undertaking extraordinary journeys to experience his latest film, The Odyssey, in its intended format: Imax 1570. With only 41 cinemas worldwide equipped to screen this high-resolution film, audiences are travelling from across the globe to witness the cinematic spectacle at its best.
The Epic Quest for Imax 1570
In a striking parallel to Homer’s classic tale, where Odysseus embarks on a perilous journey filled with wonders and challenges to return home, Nolan aficionados are setting off on their own odysseys. The Odyssey, filmed entirely on the demanding Imax 1570 format, offers viewers an unparalleled resolution, immersing them in a visual experience that few cinemas can replicate.
Nolan has long championed this format, which utilises 70mm film stock with 15 perforations per frame, ensuring the highest quality projection available. The process is laborious; the Imax cameras are heavy and notoriously loud, requiring frequent reloading. During filming, the stock had to be changed every three minutes, prompting Nolan to collaborate with Imax to develop a soundproof housing for the camera, enabling dialogue recording for the first time in this format.
A Limited Number of Cinemas
The transition to digital cinema over the past decade has reduced the number of venues capable of projecting 1570 film. Currently, only 41 cinemas globally can accommodate this format, with the Imax in Melbourne, Australia, being the sole representative in the southern hemisphere. The venue had previously removed its film projector but reinstated it at Nolan’s request to showcase his 2017 film, Dunkirk.
As The Odyssey approaches its release, fans are flocking to Melbourne from distant locations such as Turkey, Singapore, Germany, and even Los Angeles. The cinema is home to a remarkable 17km reel of film, weighing 240kg, described by technical manager Dan Drobik as “a precious commodity”.
“We’re one of only 41 cinemas worldwide where you can see it the way Nolan envisioned,” states Melbourne’s Imax general manager Jeremy Fee. “With only seven outside North America, audiences are seeking a truly unique experience that cannot be found elsewhere. It’s incredible to see people planning their holidays around a screening.”
The Thrill of the Experience
Melbourne Imax boasts the largest 1.43:1 cinema screen globally, measuring an impressive 32 metres wide by 23 metres high—roughly the height of a seven-storey building. Tickets for The Odyssey went on sale a year ago, selling over 17,000 within the first 24 hours. To date, ticket sales have surpassed 30,000, positioning The Odyssey as the eighth most popular film in the venue’s history before its official release.
As fans like Christian Wächter and Romy Demeter from Germany prepare for their journey to Melbourne to see The Odyssey twice, they highlight the significance of the experience. “People often ask why we would travel so far just to watch a film,” says Wächter. “But for us, it’s about the experience of viewing it on the largest 1570 screen in the world. It’s akin to spending thousands for a sports event—this is a cultural experience worth the journey.”
Despite their excitement, not everyone understands the fervour surrounding Nolan’s work. Wächter’s family members, particularly those of older generations, find it difficult to grasp why anyone would go to such lengths for a film.
The Resurgence of Film Formats
The growing interest in Nolan’s films is contributing to a renaissance of the 1570 format, with the number of cinemas capable of screening it increasing from 30 to 41 since the release of Oppenheimer three years ago. More filmmakers are returning to traditional film formats, with many audiences becoming increasingly aware of the nuances between digital and film presentations.
Drobik, who operates the 1570 projector, likens the experience to audiophiles who prefer vinyl over digital music. He explains, “Both may play the same song, but one offers a richer, more authentic experience. The warmth and feeling of 1570 film can’t be replicated digitally.”
The intricate nature of 1570 projection means Drobik must remain vigilant throughout screenings, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. The scarcity of this format has led to a heightened appreciation among audiences, who are eager to immerse themselves in a unique cinematic experience devoid of digital distractions.
Why it Matters
The Odyssey’s imminent release is not just a film event; it signifies a cultural movement that underscores the importance of traditional filmmaking techniques in a digital age. As audiences become more aware of the distinct qualities of various film formats, the demand for authentic cinematic experiences continues to grow. Nolan’s work is fostering a new appreciation for the art of film, reminding us that great storytelling is best experienced in the way it was originally intended. The pilgrimage to Melbourne’s Imax is a testament to this burgeoning enthusiasm, illustrating that for many, cinema is not merely entertainment; it is an art form worth travelling for.