'The Odyssey' crushes box-office expectations with record $124M opening

When Christopher Nolan first announced his new epic, The Odyssey, the industry observers expected the gritty film to crush the box-office record.

Now, as expected, the Matt Damon-starring film opened to a record $124.6 million from 3,919 domestic theatres.

Though Nolan's previous The Dark Knight Rises debuted to $160 million - not adjusted for inflation - what made The Odyssey stand apart is that it is rated R, which automatically limits who can buy tickets.

While internationally, the Greek epic raked in $264.1 million globally, leaving the production rejoicing.

For example, Jim Orr, who served as Universal's domestic distribution president, said, “There’s a palpable excitement in theaters this weekend."

He continued, “Christopher Nolan is one of the most trusted filmmakers ever, and audiences know he’s going to deliver something that you want to experience on the big screen."

"We have showtimes in certain formats that are sold out for next weekend, the weekend after, and even mid-week.”

Similarly, David A. Gross, who publishes the box office newsletter FranchiseRe, raved about Nolan for developing a hit film based on an ancient story.

“Christopher Nolan is the only filmmaker working today who could take an ancient story like this, attract a cast as sprawling and accomplished as this, and make it a pop culture event."

“Nolan has become a unique and singular talent, with a loyal and enthusiastic following," he added.

The Odyssey is in the cinema.