Stanisland Magazine

Described as a “mythic action epic,” Syncopy’s new movie is a star-studded fantasy adaption of Homer’s The Iliad.

Here we go again, another Christopher Nolan film is on the horizon and we’re left wondering what it’s all about. His new film, an adaptation of Homer’s poem, The Odyssey, has started a factory of rumours.

The upcoming feature contrasts the director’s past films, causing widespread intrigue. But what’s got most movie-buffs excited, is how the movie mogul will depict such extravagant antagonists. Here’s what we know so far.

What’s the Plot?

Based on the poem The Odyssey by Homer, it is closely connected to his first, The Iliad, part of a larger narrative about the Trojan War.

In the aftermath of the conflict, the King of Ithaca, Odysseus, begins a perilous 10-year journey home. As they navigate the seas, they come across an island; curiosity gets the better of them and they begin investigating the landscape.

While traversing its terrain, they stumble upon a cave filled with food. Without question, they feast and this is where things get dicey.

At the last moment, a boulder seals their way out. This is when they notice a giant cyclops, Polyphemus, the son of the mythical being Poseidon. The creature begins devouring the king’s men, which is when they fight back, killing the beast.

Angered by this, Poseidon makes their voyage home a treacherous passage; along the way, they encounter supernatural creatures and forces the likes of which have never been seen before.

However, upon reaching his homeland, Odysseus finds his kingdom under threat, which leads to a compelling finale.

Adaptations are often the subject of embellishments or adjustments; so what we know of the plot is subject to change.

Casting Choices and Screenplay

So far, the studio has confirmed an all star cast which includes past Nolan collaborators like Anne Hathaway and Matt Damon.

Newcomers Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, and Tom Holland are also involved.

Considering his task ahead, we can assume the cast will be expanded to include an enormous amount of extras. The screenplay raises speculation as to who they will portray; even more intriguing is how the director will employ his preferred method of practical effects.

Practical Effects Over CGI

Christopher Nolan has always made clear his preference for practical effects over computer generated imagery (CGI).

Past comments regarding its use were clarified in an interview with the Director’s Guild of America. In it, he said: “I prefer films that feel more like real life, so any CGI has to be very carefully handled to fit into that.”

Characters Featured in the Movie

Many creatures featured in The Odyssey are often used as inspirations for cryptids and mythical beings in other fictional stories. They include Scylla, a six-head sea monster, and Sirens, who lure sailors with their charm to their detriment.

Other humanoid characters include Calypso, a nymph who imprisons Odysseus for a number of years, and Circe, a sorceress who transforms his men into pigs.

New IMAX Technology

Production will utilise brand new IMAX cameras which includes a quieter technology for improved dialogue capture. This will greatly enhance the clarity of sound, allowing for faster post-production.

In addition, the new cameras are manufactured using a lightweight carbon fiber body, making gear easier to maneuver.

Adaptations: Nolan’s Track Record Speaks Volumes

Christopher Nolan has a dependable track record when it comes to adaptations, with films like The Dark Knight Trilogy, The Prestige, and Dunkirk in his portfolio. This is acknowledged by his box office success, having grossed more than $6 billion worldwide.

Arguably, Inception is an unofficial interpretation of the anime, Paprika, with several scenes directly converted to screen.

Fan Excitement

There was much speculation that the filmmaker would be tackling another action adventure screenplay, but overall, excitement has gripped the movie scene.

The Odyssey’s announcement has surprised many, with some comments jokingly saying, “Everyone calm down, there could still be helicopters.”

Another was enticed by the prospect of the source material’s conversion to screen stating: “A practically filmed Greek Myth movie? I am very down for this. CR will have to wait for his helicopter cops.”

Filming Start Date

Filming is slated to begin in early 2025, and will mark Nolan’s return to Universal Studios following the acclaimed success of Oppenheimer, which earned 13 Oscar nominations at the Academy Awards.

Release Date

It is scheduled to be released on July 17, 2026. This is subject to change when filming begins to factor in delays and post-production.