Matt Damon Transforms into Odysseus in First Look at Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey

The highly anticipated first-look poster of Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, The Odyssey, has been unveiled, showcasing Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus.

The film’s creators also confirmed that The Odyssey will hit theaters on July 17, 2026. Based on Homer’s classic poem, the film follows Odysseus on his arduous 10-year journey home after the Trojan War.

Official Announcement and First Look Poster

The official X (formerly Twitter) account for the film shared the first look at Damon in character.

The post read, “Matt Damon is Odysseus. A film by Christopher Nolan, #TheOdysseyMovie is in theaters July 17, 2026.” The poster features Damon dressed as a warrior, gazing into the distance, setting the tone for an epic journey.

Star-Studded Cast Joins the Project

The Odyssey boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Alongside Matt Damon, the film features Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, Mia Goth, and John Leguizamo in key roles.

The film marks a reunion for Nolan and several of these actors, including Damon, Hathaway, and Pattinson.

A Legendary Tale Reimagined

Homer’s epic poem narrates the story of King Odysseus as he struggles to return to Ithaca after the Trojan War.

His journey is fraught with divine interventions, mythical creatures, and relentless obstacles. Meanwhile, his wife and son must fend off suitors eager to claim the throne in his absence.

The Hollywood Reporter summarized the plot, stating, “Homer’s poem tells of the Greek hero King Odysseus and his tortuous, 10-year journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. The journey is filled with interruptions and influence from the gods (not to mention a few Cyclopes). The story also involves Odysseus’s wife and grown son, who must contend with aggressive suitors who have designs on the throne.”

Nolan’s Vision for The Odyssey

Fresh off his Oscar-winning success with Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan takes on a new challenge by adapting The Odyssey for the big screen.

Known for his intricate storytelling and innovative filmmaking, Nolan’s interpretation of this legendary tale is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the ancient Greek classic.

Besides directing, Nolan has also written and produced the film under his production banner, Syncopy, alongside longtime collaborator and wife, Emma Thomas.

Universal Pictures, which has worked with Nolan on several previous projects, will distribute the film.

Speculations on the Lead Role

The first look at Damon in full warrior attire suggests that he is the central figure in the film. Earlier reports had indicated that Tom Holland might be the lead, raising questions about how the story will be structured.

It remains to be seen whether Holland will play a younger version of Odysseus or if Nolan’s signature nonlinear storytelling will play a role in the film’s narrative.

Global Filming Locations

To bring Homer’s world to life, The Odyssey will be filmed across various global locations. According to Variety, parts of the film will be shot in Sicily, aligning with the settings described in the original poem.

Filming will commence in the spring on the Island of Favignana, locally known as “Goat Island,” believed to be the inspiration for Odysseus’s landing site in Homer’s story.

Nolan and Damon’s Ongoing Collaboration

This marks the third collaboration between Christopher Nolan and Matt Damon. Damon previously played a supporting role in Interstellar (2014) and appeared as Leslie Groves in Oppenheimer (2023).

Their partnership continues to yield compelling storytelling, making The Odyssey one of the most anticipated films of 2026.

A Mythic Action Epic in IMAX

Universal Pictures has described The Odyssey as a “mythic action epic” that will be filmed using cutting-edge IMAX technology.

This marks the first time Homer’s tale will be presented on IMAX screens, promising a visually stunning and immersive cinematic experience.

With an all-star cast, Christopher Nolan’s direction, and a gripping source material, The Odyssey is shaping up to be an epic adventure. As fans eagerly await more details, one thing is certain—on July 17, 2026, audiences will embark on an unforgettable journey through the world of ancient Greece.