Christopher Nolan’s next directorial venture has been officially announced as The Odyssey, an ambitious adaptation of Homer’s classic Greek epic. Universal Studios made the announcement on Monday, revealing that the film will be a large-scale mythological action epic, shot using cutting-edge IMAX technology. It is set to hit theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
Speculation about Nolan’s upcoming project had been circulating for months, with rumors ranging from a story about helicopter pilots to a vampire thriller. However, the confirmation that Nolan is adapting The Odyssey has generated excitement among fans and cinephiles. Known for his visually stunning and narratively complex films, Nolan is expected to bring a fresh perspective to this ancient tale.
The movie will feature an impressive ensemble cast led by Tom Holland and including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron. The powerhouse lineup of actors has only heightened anticipation for the film, with each actor known for their remarkable performances in previous blockbuster hits.
Production for The Odyssey is set to begin early next year. The story, based on Homer’s iconic 8th-century BC poem, follows King Odysseus of Ithaca and his long, perilous journey home after the Trojan War. The narrative explores themes of heroism, loyalty, intelligence, and the struggle against fate and divine intervention. Odysseus faces numerous obstacles, including encounters with mythical creatures, treacherous landscapes, and the wrath of the gods, all while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus await his return.
This won’t be the first time The Odyssey has been adapted for the screen. Previous versions include the 1954 Italian film Ulysses starring Kirk Douglas, and the 1997 TV miniseries The Odyssey featuring Armand Assante. More recently, Ralph Fiennes portrayed Odysseus in Uberto Pasolini’s The Return. The Coen Brothers’ O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) also took inspiration from the epic in a modern, comedic retelling.
However, with Christopher Nolan at the helm, this adaptation promises to be the most ambitious and grand-scale version of Homer’s classic ever attempted. The use of IMAX film technology suggests the film will deliver breathtaking visuals, combined with Nolan’s signature storytelling style.
As excitement builds for The Odyssey, fans eagerly await further updates on casting details, plot interpretations, and the visual style Nolan will bring to this timeless tale. With such a celebrated cast and a legendary director at the forefront, The Odyssey is poised to become one of the most anticipated cinematic events of 2026.