Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s classic has finally unveiled its first character images, confirming Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. The exclusive first-look photos, released by Empire Magazine, offer a glimpse into what promises to be summer 2026’s most ambitious cinematic experience.
Table of Contents
The Odyssey: Essential Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 17, 2026 |
| Director | Christopher Nolan |
| Lead Actor | Matt Damon (Odysseus) |
| Supporting Cast | Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, Mia Goth |
| Budget | $250 million (Nolan’s most expensive film) |
| Filming Format | First film shot entirely on IMAX 70mm cameras |
| Production Company | Syncopy, Universal Pictures |
| Producers | Christopher Nolan, Emma Thomas |
Meet the Royal Family of Ithaca
Tom Holland Steps Into Armor as Telemachus
The newly revealed images showcase Holland in armor, portraying Telemachus, the son of Odysseus who embarks on his own quest to find his missing father. The costume design showcases ancient Greek aesthetics with remarkable attention to detail, setting the visual tone for Nolan’s interpretation of this mythological world.
According to Homer’s original text, the first four books focus on Telemachus’ perspective, meaning his individual arc should play a major role in the film. Set photos from earlier this year showed Holland filming boat sequences, potentially depicting Telemachus sailing to Pylos as he searches for answers about his father’s fate.
This marks Holland’s second major 2026 release, as he’ll also reprise his role as Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Brand New Day the same month. Talk about a blockbuster summer!
Anne Hathaway Returns as Penelope, Queen of Ithaca
The first image reveals Hathaway as Penelope, Odysseus’ faithful wife who awaits his return in Ithaca. Standing near an ornate throne with a bow in hand, Hathaway’s Penelope exudes strength and determination—qualities essential for a character who spends decades fending off suitors while maintaining hope for her husband’s return.
This represents Hathaway’s third collaboration with Nolan, following memorable performances in The Dark Knight Rises as Catwoman and Interstellar as Dr. Amelia Brand. While Odysseus battles mythical creatures and vengeful gods, Penelope faces her own challenges as numerous suitors compete for her hand, believing her husband dead.
Mia Goth’s Mysterious Maid Melantho
Behind Penelope stands Mia Goth, confirmed to be playing Melantho, one of the palace maids who may not be entirely trustworthy. The deliberate framing of Goth and Hathaway together hints at the complex dynamic between these two characters. Without spoiling Homer’s classic tale, their relationship becomes pivotal as the story unfolds, especially regarding loyalty and betrayal in Odysseus’ household.
Why This Production is Breaking Records
Shot Entirely on IMAX: A Cinematic First
Nolan revealed to Empire that the production “shot over two million feet of film” during principal photography, ensuring every storyline receives proper attention. Even more groundbreaking? The Odyssey makes history as the first film ever captured entirely using IMAX’s 70mm film cameras—from sweeping battle scenes to intimate family moments.
Previous Nolan films used IMAX for select sequences, but this adaptation pushes the format to unprecedented heights. The large-format system promises to immerse audiences in Homer’s mythological world like never before.
Advanced Pre-Sales Selling Out a Year Early
The anticipation has reached fever pitch. When IMAX released limited tickets for 70mm screenings a full year before the 2026 premiere, they sold out within minutes at only about 26 specially equipped venues globally, setting a record for the longest advance pre-sale in cinema history.
This overwhelming response demonstrates Nolan’s unparalleled ability to transform theatrical releases into cultural events. Check Universal Pictures’ official Odyssey page for updates on additional screenings.
The All-Star Ensemble: Who Else Joins the Journey?
Beyond the core family, The Odyssey assembles a who’s who of Hollywood talent. Matt Damon leads as the cunning Greek hero Odysseus, reuniting with Nolan after Interstellar. Robert Pattinson returns following Tenet, while Benny Safdie rejoins after his standout Oppenheimer performance.
The ensemble also includes Zendaya (reuniting with Holland), Charlize Theron (reportedly playing sorceress Circe), Lupita Nyong’o, Jon Bernthal, Elliot Page, Himesh Patel, and Samantha Morton. Each brings gravitas to Homer’s sprawling epic filled with gods, monsters, and mortals.
For more insights on blockbuster cinema and Nolan’s filmography, explore our director spotlight series at TechnoSports.
What to Expect from Nolan’s Adaptation
Matt Damon recently described the film as “exactly what you want of a summer movie” and called it the “best experience” of his career. Nolan approaches the source material with reverence while injecting his signature storytelling techniques—non-linear narratives, practical effects, and emotional depth.
The story chronicles Odysseus’ decade-long journey home following the Trojan War, encountering mythical beings like the Cyclops Polyphemus, the Sirens, and the witch-goddess Circe. Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, Penelope and Telemachus navigate their own trials as suitors overrun the palace.
Principal photography spanned February to August 2025 across Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, Iceland, and Western Sahara, capturing diverse landscapes that bring Homer’s Mediterranean odyssey to life. With a $250 million budget, this represents Nolan’s most expensive and ambitious project yet.
Want to dive deeper into Greek mythology and epic storytelling? Visit our mythology in modern cinema guide for comprehensive coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey be released in theaters?
A: The Odyssey hits theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026, exclusively as a theatrical experience. Universal Pictures is distributing the film globally, with IMAX 70mm presentations available at select venues. Given that advance tickets for special 70mm screenings sold out a full year before release, interested viewers should monitor local theater listings closely. The film will likely follow Nolan’s traditional theatrical window before any streaming or home video release, as the director remains a strong advocate for the big-screen experience. With its groundbreaking IMAX cinematography and $250 million production value, The Odyssey is designed to be experienced in theaters. Stay updated on ticketing through Universal Pictures’ official channels and your local IMAX theaters.
Q: Is Tom Holland playing Odysseus or Telemachus in The Odyssey?
A: Tom Holland portrays Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, not the Greek hero himself. Early speculation suggested Holland might play the lead role, but those rumors were debunked when Matt Damon was confirmed as Odysseus in February 2025. Telemachus serves as a crucial character in Homer’s epic—the first four books focus entirely on his perspective as he searches for his missing father. In Nolan’s adaptation, Holland’s character will likely have substantial screen time exploring themes of identity, legacy, and coming-of-age while his legendary father battles gods and monsters across the Mediterranean. The casting pairs Holland with his Spider-Man co-star Zendaya, who also appears in the film. For complete cast updates and character breakdowns, check out our movie news section at TechnoSports.
