The upcoming feature is a modern cinematic adaptation of Homer’s legendary Greek epic, with Matt Damon leading an ensemble cast. The film is scheduled for global release on July 17, 2026.
The first stills, revealed exclusively by Empire magazine, showcase the grand scale Nolan is bringing to Odysseus’ ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. Damon’s portrayal of Odysseus carries the marks of hardship and endurance, capturing the emotional and physical toll of the character’s long battle to return to Ithaca.
Joining Damon is Tom Holland in the role of Telemachus. The newly released visuals present Holland in a more intense and grounded light compared to his previous work. His character appears under protective watch, reflecting the dangers surrounding Odysseus’ fractured household in Ithaca.
Anne Hathaway steps into the role of Penelope, Odysseus’ devoted wife whose unwavering faith anchors the narrative. In one of the images, she is shown gazing toward the horizon while holding a bow, symbolizing both her strength and her vigilance. Mia Goth appears as Melantho, one of Penelope’s maids, positioned behind her in simpler clothing that reflects the household’s shifting dynamics.
Early reports suggest that The Odyssey may be one of the most demanding productions of Nolan’s career. According to Variety, the director and his team shot an extraordinary amount of footage — more than two million feet of film — to capture the magnitude of the story. The entire shoot was conducted with IMAX cameras, a decision Nolan described as “pretty primal,” aiming to immerse viewers in the brutal and unpredictable nature of Odysseus’ journey.
In pursuit of authenticity, the team filmed on real locations, including open seas and rugged coastal landscapes. Nolan emphasized the importance of grounding the film in realism, describing it as an attempt to portray the raw fear, uncertainty, and resilience that defined ancient voyages. He referred to the process as a “leap of faith” into a world that feels both ancient and unfamiliar.
Despite its modern reinterpretation, the film remains faithful to Homer’s core themes — loyalty, survival, destiny, and the unbreakable human spirit. Nolan’s adaptation promises to blend emotional depth with epic scale, making The Odyssey one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.
