Christopher Nolan was reportedly determined to keep the release date of his upcoming espionage thriller Tenet in July despite the global pandemic. The movie is one of the most anticipated things of the year and could become a worthy Oscar contender considering the filmmaker’s history. The release for the movie was recently pushed back a couple weeks from July 17th to July 31st, so ultimately, Nolan got what he wanted despite the little push.

With theaters in the US gradually re-opening with social distancing protocols, the nation’s biggest markets: New York City and Los Angeles, are expected to open their theaters on July 10th with the enforced protocols. Hollywood should expect some diminishing returns considering the guidelines. Theaters in America will first open at very limited capacity, around 25%, and customers must keep six feet apart.

According to The New York Times:

“In recent weeks, Warner, concerned about its Tenet investment, was leaning in favor of postponement, while Mr. Nolan, a fervent advocate for preserving the moviegoing experience, was more eager to press ahead. The discussions amounted to a fraught moment for Warner: Mr. Nolan is a proven moneymaker, and the studio wants to keep him happy.”

— The New York Times

Because of this push, Disney’s Mulan live-action remake will be the first major Hollywood Summer release unless the studio removes its current release date of July 24th. It is going to very interesting to see how all the big blockbusters will perform with social distancing guidelines and a limited amount of patrons, and if the virus could even hurt a movie directed by someone like Christopher Nolan.

Why do I say that? Well Nolan’s films in the past have all been serious hits in the box office. Interstellar, released in 2014, grossed a massive 677.4M at the global box office despite its hulking running time of 169 minutes. Additionally, his last film, Dunkirk (2017), a historically-based war film earned an impressive 526.9M worldwide. Otherwise, he’s had success with The Dark Knight trilogy, which garnered roughly 2.45 billion dollars globally. This proves that even with long running times, darker themes and even a biopic of sorts, this guy cannot be stopped when it comes to ticket sales.

Nolan recently wrote that “Movie theaters are a vital part of American social life. They will need our help.” The acclaimed director is an advocate when it comes to the full theater experience, releasing most of his movies in IMAX and 70mm, now including Tenet, which will hit theaters in both formats. He further expanded on that comment, writing: “…providing jobs for many and entertainment for all. These are places of joyful mingling where workers serve up stories and treats to the crowds that come to enjoy an evening out with friends and family. As a filmmaker, my work can never be complete without those workers and the audiences they welcome.

Tenet is released in theaters July 31st in IMAX and 70mm. Are you watching?