The Odyssey becomes Christopher Nolan’s highest grossing film as it passes $1.1bn at box office

Christopher Nolan's adaptation of the ancient Greek epic, "The Odyssey," has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the director's highest-grossing film ever. The movie has surpassed the $1 billion mark at the global box office in less than a month since its release on July 17th.

The blockbuster, starring Matt Damon as the Greek king Odysseus on his arduous 10-year voyage home after the Trojan War, has garnered strong reviews from critics. It has accumulated $1.104 billion (£819m, A$1.56bn) worldwide, eclipsing Nolan's previous record-holder, "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012), which earned $1.085 billion.

This latest success adds to Nolan's impressive filmography, which includes other major hits like "Tenet," "Dunkirk," and "Interstellar." His films have collectively grossed over $7 billion globally.

"The Odyssey" was written and directed by the 56-year-old filmmaker and produced alongside his wife, Emma Thomas. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson, and has also become the highest-grossing film in the careers of all three lead actors. The three-hour epic also features performances from Zendaya, Tom Holland, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o.

The film debuted at the global box office's number one spot and maintained its position for two consecutive weekends. Produced by Syncopy and Universal Pictures, "The Odyssey" is one of three Universal films to reach the $1 billion mark this year, alongside "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" and the Michael Jackson biopic "Michael."

Jim Orr, president of domestic theatrical distribution at Universal Pictures, commented on the film's success, stating, "Christopher Nolan has earned audiences’ trust by consistently delivering must-see theatrical events, and 'The Odyssey' is him operating at the peak of his powers." He added that the film has been "at the forefront of culture, with audiences seeking out premium formats and repeat viewings for this once-in-a-lifetime cinematic journey."

Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, president of distribution at Universal Pictures International, praised the film as "a global epic that has resonated with audiences everywhere with its massive scope and uncompromising vision."

With a reported production budget of $250 million (£185m, A$353m) before marketing costs, "The Odyssey" stands as one of the most expensive productions in Nolan's career.