Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, The Odyssey, is scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 17, 2026, delivering an epic retelling of Homer’s ancient Greek tale. With a star-studded cast and groundbreaking IMAX filming technology, anticipation is building for Nolan’s latest ambitious project.
A glimpse into Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of Homer’s epic
Following the critical acclaim and multiple Oscars won by Nolan’s Oppenheimer, the director is already pushing boundaries with The Odyssey. Universal Pictures announced in December 2024 that Nolan’s next film will reimagine the classic story of Odysseus, one of literature’s oldest and most enduring epics. This new version is described as a “mythic action epic” and is notable for being the first blockbuster filmed entirely with new IMAX film technology.
The production is set to take place across a variety of global locations, enhancing the story’s vast scope and immersive experience. Tickets for 70mm IMAX screenings are already selling quickly, reflecting the strong excitement from audiences for Nolan’s distinctive cinematic style.
Early teaser offers a mysterious and captivating look
A teaser trailer for The Odyssey is currently available, though only in theaters ahead of major IMAX releases like Jurassic World Rebirth and Superman. This early glimpse, just over a minute long, introduces viewers to a moody and atmospheric version of the classic narrative.
The trailer briefly introduces Matt Damon as Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, alongside Tom Holland as his son, Telemachus, and Jon Bernthal in a mysterious role. Scenes showcase a turbulent ocean, the iconic Trojan Horse, and a group gathered around a fire sharing rumors about Odysseus’s fate.
“Darkness. Zeus’ law smashed to pieces. A kingdom without a king since my master died,” a narrator intones as stormy waves crash. “He knew it was an unwinnable war. And then, somehow, he won it.”
Bernthal’s character questions those around the fire:
“I know nothing of Odysseus, not since Troy,” and later, “Interested in rumor, huh? Gossip. Who has a story about Odysseus, huh? You? You? You have a story? Some say he’s rich, some say he’s poor. Some say he perished. Some say he’s imprisoned. What say you?”
Telemachus responds:
“I have to find out what happened to my father. When did you last see him?”
Bernthal’s character adds:
“What kind of prison? Good, old man like that,”
The final moments show snapshots of Greek soldiers, mysterious caverns, and Odysseus himself, adrift on a piece of wood at sea, encapsulating themes of survival and heroism.
The storyline: Odysseus’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War
The Odyssey remains faithful to the core of Homer’s epic, recounting the story of Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as he struggles to return home following the decade-long Trojan War. What should have been a swift voyage transforms into a perilous ten-year odyssey filled with mythical beings, deadly challenges, and divine interventions.
Among the dangerous encounters are the Cyclops, the tempting Sirens, and the witch-goddess Circe, portrayed by Charlize Theron. Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, Odysseus is presumed dead, leaving his wife Penelope to fend off persistent suitors vying for his throne, while their son, Telemachus, wrestles with uncertainty over his father’s fate.
Release date confirmed for mid-2026 debut
The Odyssey is set to premiere on July 17, 2026, marking a mid-summer release that positions the film as a major cinematic event. The timing aligns with widespread industry anticipation and a planned rollout emphasizing the IMAX experience.
A distinguished ensemble cast enhances the epic
Leading the cast is Matt Damon as Odysseus, with Tom Holland playing his son, Telemachus. Jon Bernthal is featured in a significant role, while Lupita Nyong’o and Charlize Theron also deliver key performances. The large supporting cast includes notable actors who bring depth to this retelling.
Speaking about the film, Holland described it as:
“The best experience I’ve had on the film set. Incredible,” he said. “It was exciting. It was different. And I think the movie is going to be unlike anything we’ve ever seen.”
He also praised Nolan and producer Emma Thomas:
“To get a front row seat to that and to be a part of the process and to collaborate with a true master of his craft and learn from him was the best experience I’ve ever had.”
Holland reflected on working alongside his inspirations, naming Damon and Anne Hathaway among his co-stars:
“To share scenes with them, to learn from them, to become friends with them, I couldn’t have asked for a better job,” he added. “And I’m so proud of the work I’ve done. I came to work every day with a real sense of purpose and a point to prove, and I’m so grateful for Chris to have given me that opportunity.”
Beyond the leads, the cast features a broad lineup of award-winning actors and Hollywood heavyweights, including Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Benny Safdie, John Leguizamo, Elliot Page, Mia Goth, Himesh Patel, Corey Hawkins, Bill Irwin, Samantha Morton, Josh Stewart, Ryan Hurst, and Logan Marshall-Green.
The significance of Nolan’s latest epic for cinema and audiences worldwide
The Odyssey represents Christopher Nolan’s continued dedication to elevating cinematic craft through innovative technology, powerful storytelling, and meticulous casting. By choosing to shoot completely on IMAX film, Nolan is setting a new standard for visual immersion that cinema fans eagerly anticipate.
Adapting the foundational story of Odysseus allows Nolan to explore timeless themes of heroism, loyalty, and perseverance through a lens that blends myth with intense human drama. The film’s worldwide locations and scale promise a fresh perspective on a story that has captivated audiences for millennia.
As the July 2026 release nears, industry watchers and fans alike will be closely following The Odyssey to see how Nolan’s ambitious vision unfolds and whether it can match or exceed the impact of his previous works.
