Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jul 23
IMAX Jumps 8% as 'The Odyssey' Keeps $1.4 Billion Box Office Goal Intact
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jul 23

IMAX Jumps 8% as 'The Odyssey' Keeps $1.4 Billion Box Office Goal Intact

3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jul 23

Summary

  • IMAX shares rose more than 8% after the company said it remains on track for a record $1.4 billion in global box office in 2026.
  • The boost came from Universal's "The Odyssey," which delivered a $52 million IMAX opening weekend and eased concerns after Netflix's "Narnia" slipped to February 2027.
  • Less than 1% of screens generated 20% of the film's worldwide debut for IMAX, while Monday's $11 million and Tuesday's $10.6 million set up one of its biggest second weekends.
  • 38 IMAX systems were installed in the second quarter—the highest for that period in a decade—putting the company on pace for 160 to 175 installations by end-2026.
  • A 421-screen backlog and a late-year slate including "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" and "Dune: Part Three" underpin IMAX's expansion and box-office outlook.

Insights

With identical $250M budgets, why is Nolan's epic a triumph while Disney's remake faces a massive loss?
Will the success of Nolan's R-rated film, shot entirely on IMAX, change how future Hollywood blockbusters are made?
Despite terrible reviews, 'Moana' scored high with audiences. What does this disconnect reveal about modern film criticism?