MUMBAI : Christopher Nolan has described Indian audiences as “some of the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable cinematic audiences in the world” during a special screening of The Odyssey at the IMAX theatre in Lower Parel, Mumbai.

The event, held on Friday evening, marked the film’s first public screening anywhere in the world and brought Nolan together with cast members Matt Damon, Tom Holland and Zendaya for the landmark launch.

Addressing the audience after the screening, Nolan expressed his excitement about premiering one of his films in India for the first time.

“This is not the first time I’ve been to Mumbai, but it is the first time I’ve had the chance to launch a film here. So, you are amongst the first audiences in the world to see this film,” he said.

Reflecting on his long-standing connection with India, Nolan noted that he had previously filmed in both Jaipur and Mumbai and described each visit as memorable.

“It’s always a thrill to be in India. I’ve had the pleasure of filming here twice, once in Jaipur, once in Mumbai. Every time I come here, it’s very, very special,” he said.

The Oscar-winning director added that he had wanted for years to launch one of his films in India and experience it alongside local audiences.

“For many years, I’ve wanted to come here and launch one of our films and experience it with Indian audiences, who are some of the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable cinematic audiences in the world,” Nolan said.

He also thanked fans for their warm welcome and support, calling the Mumbai premiere a special moment in the film’s global rollout.

During the interaction, Nolan lightened the mood by asking the audience whether Matt Damon or Tom Holland had delivered the better performance in the film, drawing cheers for both actors.

The Odyssey is Nolan’s latest cinematic project and its Mumbai screening marked a rare occasion where Indian audiences became the first in the world to watch one of the director’s films before its wider release.