The blockbuster, which was released on July 17, is an adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic and follows Matt Damon as Odysseus, the Greek king of Ithaca, on his perilous 10-year journey home after the Trojan War.
The film has grossed $US1.1 billion ($A1.6 billion) worldwide - making it the most successful of Nolan's career.
It has beaten his previous record-holder, 2012's Batman film The Dark Knight Rises, which earned $US1.085 billion, while its 2008 predecessor The Dark Knight grossed $US1.005 billion.
Oscar-winning filmmaker Nolan has directed blockbusters such as Tenet, Dunkirk and Interstellar, with his movies having now grossed more than $US7 billion globally.
The 56-year-old wrote and directed The Odyssey, which he also produced alongside his wife, Emma Thomas.
The film features a star-studded cast including Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Charlize Theron and Lupita Nyong'o.
The Odyssey debuted at number one globally and it remained in the top position for two consecutive weekends in the US and internationally.
It was made with production companies Syncopy and Universal Pictures, and is one of three Universal films to have grossed $US1 billion globally this year, alongside The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and Michael.
Jim Orr, president of domestic theatrical distribution at Universal Pictures, said: "Christopher Nolan has earned audiences' trust by consistently delivering must-see theatrical events, and The Odyssey is him operating at the peak of his powers.
"Nolan's epic film has been at the forefront of culture, with audiences seeking out premium formats and repeat viewings for this once-in-a-lifetime cinematic journey."
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