The Odyssey and Christopher Nolan next film, which should be exciting for fans of epic cinema. Christopher Nolan has established himself as one of the most prolific directors of the 21st century. Nolan's films range from underrated sci-fi films like Interstellarintrospective biopics like Oppenheimer and the blockbuster emotions of The Dark Knight trilogy. This highlights the British director's range and versatility. Regardless of the subject matter, Nolan brings an epic sense of scale to his films – often enhanced by the use of new technology.
After finally winning an Oscar for Oppenheimeraudiences across the world are eagerly awaiting confirmation of his next film. For months, stars have been circling the mysterious project, which, according to rumors, would be anything from a film focused on helicopter pilots to a story about vampires. However, it has now been confirmed that The Odyssey will be Nolan's next film, giving Nolan the chance to direct a historical epic.
What is the Odyssey? Christopher Nolan's 2026 Movie Explained
Nolan is tackling one of the most important epic tales in history
Christopher Nolan's next film will be The Odysseyan adaptation of the ancient Greek epic. Debuting in 1998 with the British crime thriller FollowingNolan has directed a dozen films to consistent critical acclaim and box office success. Nolan has become one of the most iconic and important directors in modern Hollywood, finally winning his first Oscar for Best Director with 2023. Oppenheimer.
For his next film, Nolan recalls one of the fundamental pieces of modern storytelling. The Odyssey will be a new adaptation of Homer's Greek epic and will be shot specifically (as with many of Nolan's films) with IMAX in mind. The film will continue Nolan's collaboration with Universal Pictures, which financed and distributed Oppenheimer to enormous success after two decades of work with Warner Bros. Scheduled for release on July 17, 2026, The Odyssey was touted as a “mythical action epic filmed around the world using new IMAX film technology.”
What we know about the story of the Odyssey in Homer's epic
The Odyssey It is one of the most important stories in history
The Odyssey will be based on Homer's epic poem of the same name, which focuses on Odysseus. King of the island of Ithaca, the brilliant Odysseus was crucial to the Greek victory in the Trojan War during the events of The Iliad. Before he could return home to his wife Penelope and son Telemachus, Odysseus angered the god Poseidon by blinding one of his sons Cyclops and found himself completely out of the way. Lost across the sea, Odysseus faced several monstrous and alluring threats as he fought to return home.
It is believed to have been written in c. 8th century BC and first translated into English in the 16th century, The Odyssey It is considered one of the most enduring stories in literature.
While most The Odyssey is focused on his encounters with creatures such as Cyclops and the witch-goddess Circe, the story also presents the struggles faced by Penelope and Telemachus in the decade in which Odysseus is missing at sea. TThe epic poem inspired countless retellings and has remained a constant element in the narrative for thousands of years. This creates the idea that Nolan's take on the story could be the director's most epic film yet.
Who is confirmed for the cast of Odyssey
The Odyssey It already has a mix of returning Nolan collaborators along with new actors
Even before the theme of Christopher Nolan's next film was confirmed, tthe film was already attracting an all-star cast. At the time of writing, Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o and Charlize Theron have been confirmed as part of the cast. Its specific functions have not yet been confirmed. The scope of the story also suggests that many more actors will be joining the film.
According to Deadline, Nolan The Odyssey Filming is expected to begin in early 2025with eyes on a 2026 release. This reflects Nolan's typical work schedule, especially over the last decade. Interstellar, Dunkirk, Principleand Oppenheimer were all released three years apart, and The Odyssey is scheduled to premiere three years after the premiere of Oppenheimer.
Christopher Nolan's Take on The Odyssey Could Be His Biggest Adaptation Yet
Nolan is the perfect choice for a big-screen version of Homer's epic
The Odyssey It's been brought to the big screen before, including 1954 Ulysses starring Kirk Douglass, the 1997 miniseries The Odyssey starring Armand Assante, and most recently in 2024 The Return starring Ralph Fennes. It has also served as inspiration for several films and TV shows of various genres, including O brother, where are you?, Cold Mountainand Star Trek: Odyssey. However, Nolan's track record with epic films and skill in using IMAX technology suggests a film capable of matching the epic heights of the original poem.
IMAX technology should also be ideal for truly showcasing the scope of the epic and will likely be a great visual showcase.
Nolan's talent as a director should be on full display with The Odysseyas the story explores the trauma and dangerous arrogance of a brilliant hero. It's a theme that has appeared in several other Nolan films and will be right at home in The Odyssey. IMAX technology should also be ideal for truly showcasing the scope of the epic and will likely be a great visual showcase. Given the pedigree of the cast and creatives on board, Christopher Nolan The Odyssey is on track to be one of the biggest films of 2026.
Source: Deadline
The Odyssey is director Christopher Nolan's version of Homer's iconic Greek epic poem, which follows Odysseus' grueling 10-year journey home after the Trojan War.
- Release date
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July 17, 2026