The Odyssey: The first reactions to Christopher Nolan's new blockbuster are in!
The film received an R rating
Next week marks the release of "The Odyssey", one of the biggest blockbusters of the year – and anticipation among many fans could hardly be higher. But what can we expect from this epic? The first reactions following the international premiere have come in and offer a glimpse into the film. Press reviews reveal details about the film's tone and what makes it so special within Nolan's filmography.
The initial reviews are extremely positive. Unlike with many major Hollywood productions, Universal Pictures deliberately opted not to hold special screenings for influencers this time around. Such exclusive screenings are often criticized because they generate hype through particularly euphoric and sometimes exaggerated reactions that don't always reflect a film's actual quality.
As a result, the initial assessments by film critics carry significantly more weight. Nevertheless, experience shows that immediate reactions following a premiere are often quite favorable. Even so, a promising picture is already emerging. The first critics have expressed admiration for Nolan's interpretation of the ancient myth of Odysseus and have particularly praised his approach to the material.
The cast has also received consistent praise in the initial reactions. Tom Holland, in particular, seems to have won over audiences. Several critics have even called his performance the best of his career so far.
The film's darker moments are also generating excitement. Several viewers highlight that Christopher Nolan is demonstrating his knack for genuine horror elements for the first time. Some scenes are said to create an oppressive atmosphere that could just as easily come from a classic horror film.
All in all, a clear picture is emerging from the initial reactions: "The Odyssey" is said to be an epic, thrilling, and spiritual cinematic experience, carried by an outstanding cast. If this impression is confirmed in the in-depth reviews, Christopher Nolan may once again have created a modern classic. In any case, we're excited and looking forward to its theatrical release on July 17, 2026.
Nolan Brings "The Odyssey" to the Big Screen with a Star-Studded Cast
In addition to Christopher Nolan himself, the all-star cast is one of the biggest selling points of "The Odyssey". For the film adaptation of Homer's famous epic, the director has assembled numerous Hollywood stars to portray some of the most famous figures in Greek mythology.
Matt Damon takes on the lead role of Odysseus. The actor has previously collaborated with Nolan on "Interstellar" and "Oppenheimer" and has been one of Hollywood's biggest stars for years. Damon is best known for the "Bourne" series as well as films like "The Martian". As Odysseus, he portrays the legendary king of Ithaca, who, after the Trojan War, must embark on a years-long odyssey to return to his homeland.
Tom Holland plays Telemachus, Odysseus's son. Holland is best known worldwide for his role as Spider-Man. Just a few weeks after the theatrical release of "The Odyssey," he will appear in the new "Spider-Man" film, "Brand New Day". His character, Telemachus, grows up during his father's absence and eventually sets out on a quest to find him.
Anne Hathaway takes on the role of Penelope. The Oscar winner has previously appeared in Nolan's "The Dark Knight Rises" and "Interstellar". Her best-known films also include "The Devil Wears Prada" and "Les Misérables". Penelope is Odysseus's wife, who waits many years for his return and must fend off numerous suitors.
Robert Pattinson plays Antinoos, one of these suitors. Pattinson first made a name for himself with the "Twilight" saga before further demonstrating his acting talent in films such as "The Batman" and Nolan's "Tenet". A special challenge awaits Lupita Nyong'o, who takes on two roles. The Oscar winner from "12 Years a Slave" and the Marvel hit "Black Panther" plays both Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra.
Charlize Theron takes on the role of the nymph Calypso. The Oscar winner is known for her roles in "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Monster", among others. Calypso holds Odysseus captive on her island, thereby delaying his return to Ithaca. Zendaya takes on the role of the goddess Athena. The actress is one of the biggest stars of her generation, known for the series "Euphoria" as well as the "Dune" and "Spider-Man" films, among others.
Benny Safdie plays Agamemnon, the leader of the Greek forces in the Trojan War. Safdie most recently appeared in "Oppenheimer", among other projects, and has directed films such as "Uncut Gems" with his brother Josh. Jon Bernthal takes on the role of Menelaus, the king of Sparta and Helen's husband. Bernthal is best known for "The Walking Dead" and the Marvel series "The Punisher".
John Leguizamo plays Eumaeus, Odysseus's loyal swineherd. Himesh Patel portrays Eurylochus, one of Odysseus's companions. Patel has played leading roles in "Yesterday" and "Station Eleven". Meanwhile, Mia Goth plays Melantho. In recent years, the actress has made a name for herself primarily through horror films such as "X" and "Pearl". Melantho is a servant in Odysseus's palace.
R Rating and Runtime
For a blockbuster of this kind, Christopher Nolan is apparently taking an unusually hard line: "The Odyssey" has reportedly been given an R rating. Given the budget in particular, an R rating was not necessarily expected. "The Odyssey" is said to have cost around $250 million. Films in this budget range rarely receive an R rating, as the goal is to appeal to as many viewers as possible.
So we can look forward to seeing what awaits us in theaters soon. In any case, we can expect an epic cast and an epic runtime. Nolan himself recently confirmed that his latest film is just under three hours long. According to media reports, it runs two hours and 52 minutes.
