Seeing 'The Odyssey' in 70mm IMAX in Michigan is not easy - Detroit Free Press

What the report says

The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan moviegoers will have very limited options to see Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” in true 70mm IMAX, the large-format film presentation associated with the director’s preferred theatrical experience. According to the newspaper, IMAX lists Celebration! Cinema Grand Rapids North & IMAX, at 2121 Celebration Drive NE in Grand Rapids, as the state’s site showing the film in that format.

The Free Press notes that Michigan’s other true 70mm IMAX venue is the Chrysler IMAX Dome Center at the Michigan Science Center in Detroit, which generally screens educational or science-related programming. Citing USA TODAY, the article says only 25 theaters nationwide are presenting “The Odyssey” in the intended 70mm IMAX format. The film is an adaptation of the ancient story of Odysseus and features actors including Matt Damon, Tom Holland and Anne Hathaway.

The report explains that 70mm IMAX uses film stock wider than standard 35mm, allowing for greater image detail and color when projected with specialized equipment. Those projectors and film reels are expensive to operate and maintain, contributing to the format’s decline as digital projection became dominant.

The Free Press also lists several Michigan theaters offering digital IMAX screenings, including locations in Southgate, Portage, Ypsilanti, Livonia, Sterling Heights, Auburn Hills, Lansing, Grand Blanc, Grand Rapids and Traverse City. The article frames the distinction as important for viewers who specifically want the rare film-based IMAX presentation rather than a digital IMAX showing.