What is The Odyssey about? The 3,000-year-old Greek tale behind Christopher Nolan's ambitious new movie explained

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is finally set to arrive in theatres on July 17, bringing one of the oldest and most celebrated stories in world literature to the big screen. Coming after the success of Oppenheimer, the filmmaker is taking on a very different subject this time by adapting the ancient Greek epic traditionally attributed to Homer. The film has already become one of the most talked-about Hollywood releases of the year, thanks to its large cast, massive scale and the timeless story behind it.

The ancient story that inspired Nolan's film

The Odyssey is based on the Greek epic poem written nearly 3,000 years ago by Homer. The story follows Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, who begins a long journey home after the Trojan War. What should have been a short voyage turns into a difficult 10-year struggle as he faces dangerous creatures, powerful gods and countless obstacles.

While Odysseus is trying to return home, his wife Penelope and their son Telemachus continue waiting for him in Ithaca. They are forced to deal with a growing number of suitors who believe Odysseus will never return and want to take over his kingdom by marrying Penelope.


The poem itself begins in the middle of the story instead of the beginning. As the narrative unfolds, Odysseus recalls his encounters with famous figures from Greek mythology, including the Cyclops Polyphemus, the enchantress Circe, the nymph Calypso and several other mythical beings before finally making his way back to Ithaca.

Why The Odyssey has remained relevant for centuries

Beyond its adventure, the poem explores ideas that still connect with readers today. Homecoming is one of its central themes, with Odysseus refusing to give up despite years of setbacks. It also looks at loyalty through Penelope's unwavering faith, family through Telemachus' search for his father, and the constant struggle between human choices and the influence of the gods.

The work also highlights the ancient Greek value of hospitality, showing how characters are judged by the way they treat strangers and guests. These ideas have helped The Odyssey remain one of the most influential literary works ever written.

Who plays whom in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey?

Matt Damon leads the film as Odysseus, while Tom Holland plays his son Telemachus and Anne Hathaway stars as Penelope. Zendaya appears as the goddess Athena, who guides and protects Odysseus during his journey. Charlize Theron portrays Calypso, Robert Pattinson plays Antinous, one of Penelope's leading suitors, and Lupita Nyong'o takes on the role of Helen of Troy.

The supporting cast also includes Jon Bernthal as Menelaus, Benny Safdie as Agamemnon, Samantha Morton as Circe, Bill Irwin as the Cyclops Polyphemus, Himesh Patel as Eurylochus, John Leguizamo as Eumaeus and Mia Goth as Melantho, along with several other actors in undisclosed roles.

Filming began in February 2025 and took place across Greece, Italy, Morocco, Iceland, Scotland and Malta. Nolan also shot the project entirely using IMAX film cameras, making it another ambitious production in the director's career.