Nolan brings ancient Greek epic to big screen

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Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated historical epic “The Odyssey” is generating significant buzz, with Universal Studios making bold claims about the upcoming adaptation of Homer’s classic tale.

During a recent CinemaCon presentation, Universal’s distribution chief Jim Orr delivered an enthusiastic endorsement, describing the film as “a visionary, once-in-a-generation cinematic masterpiece that Homer himself would quite likely be proud of.” The statement, though delivered earnestly, elicited chuckles from some audience members.

The production boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest names. Matt Damon has been confirmed to portray Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, while other renowned actors including Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron are set to appear in yet-unannounced roles. The star-studded lineup also includes John Leguizamo, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, Mia Goth, Elliot Page, Samantha Morton, Cosmo Jarvis, and Ryan Hurst.

Even the set photo could be a wallpaper—real boats, real water, no greenscreens. Can’t wait!

Set pic of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026)🍿 pic.twitter.com/Ex2wiONt8E

— John Flickinger (@theFLICKpick) March 15, 2025

Universal describes the project as a “mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new Imax film technology. The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to Imax film screens for the first time and opens in theaters everywhere on July 17, 2026.”

The ancient Greek narrative chronicles Odysseus’s decade-long voyage home following the Trojan War, facing supernatural beings, hostile deities, and numerous challenges while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus await his return. The story culminates with Odysseus reclaiming his throne after proving his identity and defeating his adversaries.

NEW LOOK AT TOM HOLLAND ON THE SET OF CHRISTOPHER NOLAN’S ‘THE ODYSSEY’! pic.twitter.com/30SyKMJ8oR

— best of tom holland (@thollandrchive) March 27, 2025

Following the success of “Oppenheimer,” which secured seven Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director in 2024, Nolan is reportedly working with his largest budget to date, estimated at $250 million. Despite the substantial resources, cast member John Leguizamo revealed on “Morning Joe” that Nolan’s directorial approach remains distinctly independent.

“Dude, you know the thing is, okay he’s got a crazy budget, it’s not small, but he runs [it] like an indie film because he’s not doing it by committee, he’s not doing it by what the studio says,” Leguizamo shared last month, adding, “He’s like an indie filmmaker but with crazy money.”