The recent release of a film adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic poem, "The Odyssey," has led to a significant increase in interest and sales for the original work. The film, which boasts a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, and Anne Hathaway, has seen considerable success at the box office.
In the United Kingdom, the film garnered £12.6 million in its opening weekend, making it the second-highest opening of the year behind "Toy Story 5." It also set a record for the highest opening weekend takings on IMAX screens in the UK, as reported by industry publication Screen Daily. The movie was the first theatrical release to be filmed entirely with IMAX 70mm film cameras, offering an immersive viewing experience.
While many IMAX screens are available, only a few, such as the BFI and Science Museum in London, and Printworks in Manchester, are equipped with 70mm film projectors to showcase the film in its intended format. Film critics have noted the heightened, immersive quality of the IMAX 70mm presentation, though it comes at a higher ticket price compared to standard screenings.
This cinematic revival has translated into a tangible surge for the source material. Sales of Homer's "The Odyssey," particularly Emily Wilson's translation, and its audiobook versions have seen a sharp rise since the film's release, demonstrating a clear connection between the modern adaptation and renewed engagement with the ancient text.