Christopher Nolan to Direct ‘The Odyssey’ with Tom Holland, Zendaya, and More

Christopher Nolan’s next project, titled The Odyssey, has been revealed as an adaptation of Homer’s epic poem.

The film, which will be shot across the world using brand new IMAX film technology, is set to hit theaters on July 17, 2026.

Universal Studios made the announcement on Monday, unveiling the star-studded cast and the film’s basis in ancient Greek mythology.

The Cast

The film stars Tom Holland, leading a cast that includes Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron.

The ensemble cast has generated much excitement, with many speculating about the film’s plot, which was previously rumored to be about everything from helicopter pilots to vampires.

Now, it’s confirmed that The Odyssey will bring Homer’s 8th-century BC saga to the big screen.

The Story

Homer’s Odyssey tells the story of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, and his perilous journey home after the Trojan War.

The epic explores themes of heroism, loyalty, cunning, and the struggle against divine will. It is a tale of survival and the longing for home, as Odysseus faces numerous challenges, both mortal and divine, on his way back to Ithaca.

Previous Adaptations

While Nolan’s film will be the most high-profile adaptation of the epic, The Odyssey has been adapted before, including the 1954 Italian film Ulysses starring Kirk Douglas, and the 1997 miniseries directed by Andrei Konchalovsky.

Most recently, Ralph Fiennes portrayed Odysseus in The Return, a film released earlier this month. The Coen Brothers’ 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou? also drew inspiration from Homer’s work.

Production and Release

Filming for The Odyssey is set to begin in early 2025, with the film slated for release in summer 2026.

This adaptation is expected to bring a fresh, visually stunning perspective to Homer’s classic, blending action and mythology with cutting-edge technology.