The Alex Theatre has extended its run of 'The Odyssey' for two more weeks after a record-breaking showing in 70mm.
In simple terms, the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California, has announced that it will extend its screening of Christopher Nolan’s highly acclaimed film, 'The Odyssey,' through August 20. This decision comes after the refurbished theater achieved significant success, becoming the highest-grossing venue for the film in standard 70mm format across the United States. The announcement was made public on August 5, 2026, via TheWrap.
The theater’s artistic director, Miles Williams, expressed gratitude to the Los Angeles community and film aficionados from Southern California for their overwhelming support. As the first venue in 35 years to screen first-run films using celluloid—since its last full-time operations in 1991—this development marks a significant moment in the theater's history.
The Alex Theatre recently completed a major refurbishment, including the construction of a new projector room equipped with state-of-the-art 70mm projection technology. This upgrade was a remarkable feat, having been accomplished in just five weeks, allowing the theater to showcase 'The Odyssey' as part of its reopening effort. Previously, the theater had not screened first-run films since the early 1990s, and the revival brings back not only cinematic classics but also modern masterpieces.
For many, the nostalgic experience of watching films in a historic cinema like the Alex Theatre offers a unique ambiance that cannot be replicated in standard multiplexes. The venue's enhanced capabilities also enable it to host more films in both 35mm and 70mm formats, as well as live performances.
Initial audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, suggesting that the communal experience of attending a film in a grand setting still holds significant appeal. Williams noted, "The response from audiences has been overwhelming and a wonderful reminder of how much people still value the shared experience of seeing a great film together." This demonstrates an eagerness among locals and film enthusiasts alike to support and engage with historic theaters as they adapt to modern tastes.
Opened in 1925, the Alex Theatre has played an important cultural role in Los Angeles. It was notably the venue chosen by Walt Disney to preview early animations, showcasing its longstanding connection to Hollywood's storytelling tradition. With the recent refurbishments, the theater is now positioned to revitalize its mission to provide a platform for both classic films and contemporary releases.
The renaissance of the Alex Theatre coincides with a revival trend among historic venues in Los Angeles, such as the New Beverly Cinema and the Egyptian Theatre. These theaters are putting a spotlight on the value of the cinematic experience in a historical context, enhancing community engagement.
The reopening of the Alex Theatre's projector room adds to a growing roster of cinemas in Los Angeles dedicated to both first-run and classic films. Future plans for the venue include not only more projections in 35mm and 70mm but also additional programming that encompasses live arts and culture events. This strengthens the Alex’s role as a vital piece of L.A.'s entertainment landscape.
What’s more, the Bruin Theatre in Westwood is set to reopen this October, with other iconic venues also planning future revivals. The announcement of these developments highlights a considerable shift in audience preferences towards the richness of historical cinemas.
The extended run of 'The Odyssey' represents not only continued audience interest but also underscores the importance of historic theaters like the Alex in the cinematic ecosystem. As the film continues to garner attention, it is likely we will see a further push for more first-run films in similar formats. The success of this revival shows that audiences are eager for a distinctive cinematic experience that honors the art of filmmaking while embracing modern technology.
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