The best theaters to see a blockbuster in Columbus
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Annelise Capossela/Axios
Superstar director Christopher Nolan's new film, "The Odyssey," is packing theaters this weekend — but where should you see it?
Why it matters: The movie was meant for massive screens, and whether you're a dedicated cinephile or the casual "dinner and a show" type, Columbus has a theater for you.
Zoom in: Meant as a visual spectacle, "The Odyssey" was shot entirely on IMAX cameras. Nolan's preferred format is true 70mm film in an expanded 1.43:1 aspect ratio.
- The Gateway Film Center has Central Ohio's only 70mm showings, and tickets are scarce.
- We don't have a "true" IMAX screen — the nearest is in Indianapolis.
The best places to enjoy a film in Columbus:
📐 The biggest screen: Marcus Ultrascreen.
- Marcus Theatres' Ultrascreen DLX is a massive 70 feet wide and three stories tall — it's the closest we get to the true IMAX experience.
- Find it at Marcus locations in Pickerington and Crosswoods north of Worthington.
Honorable mention: IMAX Laser at the Phoenix Lennox Town Center.
- The Lennox's largest screen is just slightly smaller, and still an excellent place to see a blockbuster.
🔊 The most immersive sound: Dolby Cinema at AMC Easton.
- Specifically designed by the sound experts at Dolby, this screening room rattles your fillings and rumbles with the action.
- Great sound can be helpful for Nolan's notoriously quiet dialogue.
Honorable mention: Cinemark XD at Polaris.
- Cinemark's flagship theater is nearly as big as the Ultrascreen with great speakers.
🌎 Widest selection: Gateway Film Center.
- It may not have the biggest screen or the most concessions, but the Gateway will show that foreign film or indie darling everyone is talking about, along with specialty formats like 70mm film.
- The Film Center has been crucial in bringing festivals to Columbus and promoting local work.
Honorable mention: The Drexel.
- The 90-year-old Bexley classic does a great job of mixing blockbusters, indies and classic favorites.
👩❤️👨 Best date night: Studio 35.
- This Clintonville theater makes its bar and food the centerpiece, with tables for your pizza and dozens of beers on draft.
- Its screenings expanded significantly when it added a smaller upstairs theater in 2020.
Honorable mention: Grandview Theater.
- Under the same ownership group as Studio 35, Grandview's downtown theater is a vibrant spot.
📽️ Worthy of your time: More about the 70mm format from our friends at Axios Cleveland.