The Odyssey is one of the most anticipated films of 2026 and the most expensive project of Christopher Nolan’s career. Scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on July 17, 2026, the epic adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey is distributed by Universal Pictures and produced by Universal alongside Nolan’s production company Syncopy.
The film is written and directed by Nolan and produced by Nolan and Emma Thomas. It is based directly on Homer’s ancient Greek epic poem and follows Odysseus, the legendary king of Ithaca, on his long journey home after the Trojan War.
The confirmed cast includes Matt Damon in the lead role as Odysseus, alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya and Charlize Theron. The ensemble reflects Nolan’s pattern of blending long time collaborators with major global stars.
Behind the camera, the film reunites Nolan with several key creative partners. Cinematography is handled by Hoyte van Hoytema, editing by Jennifer Lame, and the score is composed by Ludwig Göransson. Göransson previously collaborated with Nolan on Oppenheimer and continues as his primary musical partner.
With an estimated budget of 250 million dollars, The Odyssey is the most expensive film Nolan has ever made. It is also his first feature shot entirely on IMAX 70 mm film cameras, pushing large format filmmaking even further. Production took place from February to August 2025 across multiple international locations including Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, Iceland and Western Sahara. The global shoot reflects the scale of Odysseus’ mythic journey.
Nolan reportedly began writing the screenplay in March 2024 and secured the project with Universal by October of that year. The film was officially announced in December, with casting unfolding between late 2024 and early 2025. Matt Damon was confirmed for the lead role in February 2025.
The story follows Odysseus as he attempts to return home to Ithaca and reunite with his wife Penelope after the Trojan War. Along the way he encounters mythological figures such as the Cyclops Polyphemus, the Sirens and the witch goddess Circe. Nolan has stated that his interpretation aims for a grounded and realistic portrayal of Greek mythology while still embracing the epic scale of the source material. He has cited inspiration from the films of special effects pioneer Ray Harryhausen in shaping the mythological elements.
Even before release, the film has sparked conversation, particularly around costume design and debates about historical accuracy. Given Nolan’s reputation for practical filmmaking, large scale set pieces and philosophical storytelling, expectations are exceptionally high.
The Odyssey represents a major moment not just for Nolan but for theatrical cinema itself. With a massive budget, a globally recognized literary foundation and a star driven ensemble, the film is positioned as one of the defining cinematic events of 2026.