Universal Takes the Crown as 'The Odyssey' Breaks R-Rated Global Records

Christopher Nolan’s complex historical epic The Odyssey, featuring a Matt Damon-led ensemble, has overtaken Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine to become the highest-grossing R-rated film in global box office history. Reaching a monumental $1.35 billion worldwide as of Thursday morning (August 20), the sweeping Homer adaptation surpassed the $1.34 billion final tally of Shawn Levy’s 2024 superhero tentpole. The film, which brings the grueling ancient Greek mythos to the screen with Nolan's signature grandiosity, was among the most hotly anticipated titles of the season, ultimately defying early commercial skepticism and evidently uniting global audiences. It has amassed $516.3 million in North America and $835.6 million internationally, ranking as the second-highest-grossing film of the year to date across the board. It sits only behind Sony Pictures’ unstoppable $2 billion juggernaut, Spider-Man: Brand New Day. While Levy's superhero feature still holds the record for the top R-rated opening weekend at $444.1 million globally—comfortably ahead of The Odyssey’s $264 million start (with North American debuts coming in at $211.4 million and $123.5 million, respectively)—Nolan's picture has showcased remarkable theatrical legs. Heading into its sixth weekend, The Odyssey is expected to comfortably stay in the top five at the box office, holding its own alongside Brand New Day and fresh market entrants.