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Christopher Nolan's latest epic, The Odyssey, has received an overwhelmingly positive response from early audiences, with many viewers describing it as one of the acclaimed filmmaker's finest works and even ranking it above Oppenheimer and Tenet. Released on July 17, the film has generated widespread discussion on social media platform X, where moviegoers praised its grand visuals, technical excellence and immersive storytelling. Many viewers called the film a cinematic spectacle, highlighting its breathtaking visuals, powerful sound design and emotionally engaging performances. Some noted that the opening section unfolds at a slower pace, but said the story becomes increasingly gripping as Odysseus' journey progresses. Several audience members also recommended watching the film on the biggest screen possible, saying its visual scale and sound are key to the experience. Some suggested that viewers unfamiliar with the story of Troy, the Trojan War or Homer's epic may benefit from reading a brief summary beforehand. One reviewer described The Odyssey as a "cinematic marvel," praising Nolan's direction and saying the film surpasses Oppenheimer while matching or even exceeding the ambition of Tenet. The reviewer also applauded the film's visual effects, cinematography and musical score. Matt Damon, who plays Odysseus, received widespread praise for his performance, with several viewers calling it one of the best of his career. Tom Holland, portraying Telemachus, also earned acclaim for his emotionally compelling role. Another viewer said the film delivers both entertainment and a fresh cinematic experience, crediting Nolan with creating one of his most immersive films to date. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reactions, some viewers pointed to minor shortcomings, including occasional difficulty following the dialogue, a slower first act and limited emotional connection with a few supporting characters. The Odyssey features an ensemble cast including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o and Charlize Theron. The film is an adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic, following the long and perilous journey of Odysseus as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War. Early audience reactions suggest Nolan's latest production is poised to become one of the year's biggest cinematic events. Source: NDTV

Christopher Nolan has long dreamed of making films for IMAX screens. The Oscar-winning director of Oppenheimer, Inception and The Dark Knight trilogy says his fascination began in childhood after watching nature documentaries at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry. He often wondered what it would be like to create a major Hollywood film for that format. That dream has now become reality with The Odyssey, the first feature film shot entirely on IMAX film. A milestone for IMAX filmmaking Nolan said the project became possible after years of technical improvements. Earlier IMAX cameras were too loud for dialogue-heavy scenes, but following Oppenheimer, filmmakers worked with IMAX to develop a special camera enclosure, known as "the blimp," that reduced the noise. The new camera system, named The Keighley after longtime IMAX executives Patricia and David Keighley, is dedicated to David Keighley, who died three weeks after completing his work on The Odyssey. The new setup also brought challenges. The camera weighed about 300 pounds once enclosed, film had to be reloaded every two-and-a-half to three minutes, and a mirror system had to be created so actors could see one another around the large camera during filming. Despite the difficulties, Nolan said the goal was to give audiences "something special." "They're looking for something new and exciting, and that's what we're trying to offer," he said. Many viewing options As The Odyssey opens in theatres on Friday, moviegoers can choose from several formats, including IMAX 70mm, standard 70mm, IMAX digital, 35mm, Dolby Cinema and other premium large-format screens. Speaking to The Associated Press in 2023, Nolan explained why he prefers certain formats and why he believes seeing films in cinemas offers an experience that cannot be matched at home. "If they can find an IMAX screen to see the film on, that's great," Nolan said. "It really is just a great way of giving people an experience that they can't possibly get in the home." Why IMAX 70mm stands out Nolan's previous films — Dunkirk, Tenet and Oppenheimer — were shot using large-format film, combining IMAX 65mm and Panavision 65mm, before being projected in 70mm. He said IMAX 70mm offers unmatched sharpness, clarity and depth, making viewers feel immersed in the film without the need for 3D glasses. "The screen disappears," Nolan said, explaining that the large image fills the audience's field of vision and creates a highly immersive experience. He first used IMAX cameras in The Dark Knight, which opened with an IMAX 70mm aerial shot. "Every time we screened that, we would get a gasp," he recalled. "It was something no one had seen before." Technically, IMAX film delivers nearly 10 times the resolution of a traditional 35mm projector. Each frame contains roughly 18,000 pixels of detail, compared with 1,920 pixels on a standard home HD display. Why shoot on 65mm but project in 70mm? Nolan explained that the extra 5mm originally provided space for the soundtrack on film prints. Today, with digital sound, that space remains as part of the traditional format and serves as a visual enhancement. Framing for different screens Nolan said shooting with IMAX requires careful planning because different cinemas use different screen shapes, known as aspect ratios. His team uses a technique called "center punching the action" to ensure key visual elements remain visible across all formats. Cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema also monitors framing for various screen sizes while filming. On giant IMAX 1.43:1 screens, viewers see the full image. In other formats, including 35mm, digital and CinemaScope, parts of the top and bottom are cropped. Nolan said this does not compromise the artistic composition of the film. Nolan's preferred formats For Nolan, IMAX 70mm remains the best way to experience a movie. However, such screenings are rare, with only 32 theatres in the United States and Canada showing films in that format. He also praised standard 70mm prints, calling them "a fabulous presentation." "The two formats are sort of different and I love them both," he said. Digital formats still offer a strong experience Most audiences will watch The Odyssey in digital formats, including IMAX digital, laser projection and other premium large-format systems such as Regal RPX, Cinemark XD and Cineplex UltraAVX. Nolan said his team spends months preparing digital versions from the original IMAX film to ensure the highest possible image quality across all screens. He also praised modern laser projectors used in IMAX and Dolby Cinema theatres for their excellent picture quality and contrast. According to Nolan, IMAX's influence over the past two to three decades has encouraged cinemas to improve picture and sound quality, benefiting both filmmakers and audiences. Nolan's favourite seats When it comes to choosing a seat, Nolan says it depends on the type of theatre. For CinemaScope screens, he prefers sitting near the front, around the middle of the third row. For large IMAX 1.43:1 theatres, he recommends sitting slightly behind the centre of the auditorium to get the best overall view.  

Christopher Nolan's upcoming film The Odyssey brings Homer's ancient Greek epic to the big screen with a star-studded cast, aiming to make the classic story easy for modern audiences to enjoy. Nolan said viewers do not need to be familiar with the original poem to follow the film. "It's something that we all know a little bit about, some of us know a lot about it, some of us know nothing about it," Nolan told The Associated Press. "We're making the film for that whole range of people's relationship with this foundational text." The film will be released in theatres on July 17. Here is a look at the main characters and the actors portraying them: ·         Matt Damon plays Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, whose long and dangerous journey home after the Trojan War forms the heart of the story. Damon described Odysseus as a deeply human character who struggles with the consequences of his own decisions. ·         Anne Hathaway portrays Penelope, Odysseus's loyal wife, who waits 20 years for his return while resisting more than 100 men seeking to marry her and claim the throne of Ithaca. ·         Tom Holland stars as Telemachus, the son of Odysseus and Penelope. Having grown up without knowing his father, he sets out to learn what happened to him. Nolan said the film is both a homecoming story and a coming-of-age adventure. ·         Robert Pattinson plays Antinous, the leading suitor trying to marry Penelope. Nolan said Pattinson gives the character a memorable mix of menace and dark humour. ·         Zendaya appears as Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare, who guides Odysseus throughout his journey. Zendaya said she wanted to present the goddess with both strength and humanity. ·         Lupita Nyong'o takes on two roles — Helen of Sparta, whose abduction sparked the Trojan War, and her sister Clytemnestra. She said the film explores the lasting emotional cost of war rather than simply retelling familiar myths. ·         Charlize Theron plays Calypso, the nymph who keeps Odysseus on her island during his long voyage home. ·         John Leguizamo portrays Eumaeus, the faithful swineherd who remains loyal to Odysseus despite his long absence. In the film, the character is nearly blind as a tribute to Homer, who some historians believe was blind. ·         Jon Bernthal appears as Menelaus, the King of Sparta and husband of Helen, who shares memories of Odysseus with Telemachus. ·         Benny Safdie plays Agamemnon, commander of the Greek forces during the Trojan War. ·         Samantha Morton portrays Circe, the powerful sorceress who crosses paths with Odysseus and his crew. ·         Himesh Patel plays Eurylochus, Odysseus's trusted second-in-command who accompanies him through many of the epic's greatest challenges. ·         Elliot Page appears as Sinon, a veteran of the Trojan War drawn from Greek mythology. ·         Bill Irwin portrays the Cyclops, the one-eyed giant and son of Poseidon. Nolan said the production combined puppetry, animatronics and computer-generated effects to bring the character to life while giving him emotional depth rather than presenting him as simply a monster. ·         Mia Goth plays Melantho, one of Penelope's servants. ·         Corey Hawkins portrays Polybus, one of Penelope's suitors. ·         Travis Scott appears as a bard in the royal court of Ithaca. With its mix of myth, adventure and an all-star cast, Nolan's adaptation aims to introduce one of literature's greatest stories to a new generation of moviegoers.  

Actor Zendaya has launched the promotional tour for Christopher Nolan's upcoming film "The Odyssey", turning heads with a look inspired by her character in the movie. Widely regarded as one of Hollywood's leading fashion figures, the Emmy Award-winning actress is known for "method dressing" by choosing outfits that reflect the roles she plays. She appears to be continuing that trend for The Odyssey. For her first appearance promoting the film, Zendaya wore a flowing outfit from the Khaite Resort 2027 collection. The look featured an ivory draped blouse with a deep V-neckline, paired with a matching semi-sheer A-line midi skirt. A black leather cord belt with gold accents highlighted the waist. Zendaya plays Athena in the film, a character traditionally depicted in flowing white garments. Fashion observers said her outfit appeared to be a modern tribute to the Greek goddess's signature style. She completed the look with gold dangling earrings, her trademark pixie bob hairstyle and metallic python-print strappy sandals by Christian Louboutin, replacing her usual So Kate pumps. Her understated makeup kept the focus on the outfit's elegant silhouette. The appearance marks the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched promotional tour for The Odyssey, with Zendaya once again blending fashion with her on-screen role. Earlier this year, Zendaya also drew attention for her bridal-inspired looks while promoting The Drama. Reports say she recently married longtime partner and fellow actor Tom Holland. She also earned praise for a series of character-inspired fashion choices during the promotional campaign for Spider-Man: Brand New Day. With The Odyssey, Zendaya appears to be entering a new goddess-inspired fashion phase that is already attracting attention.

Even before its release, Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated film The Odyssey has become one of the most debated movies of 2026, drawing criticism over its casting choices, dialogue and interpretation of Homer's ancient Greek epic. The film, featuring Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Lupita Nyong'o and several other stars, is scheduled to hit cinemas on July 17. While many movie lovers are eagerly waiting for Nolan's latest project after the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer, the film has also sparked heated discussions online. Most of the controversy has focused on the cast. Some conservative critics questioned Nolan's decision to cast transgender actor Elliot Page and rapper Travis Scott in key roles. Others criticised the selection of Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o as Helen of Troy, arguing that Homer's original poem described the character as "white-armed." Right-wing commentator Matt Walsh claimed Nolan made the casting choice to avoid accusations of racism, although he provided no evidence for the claim. Tech billionaire Elon Musk also expressed support for the criticism on social media. In response, many users accused Walsh and Musk of promoting racial prejudice. Scholars, however, dismissed much of the debate. Professor Daniel Mendelsohn, whose English translation of The Odyssey was published last year, said the criticism was exaggerated because Helen plays only a small role in the story. He also suggested that Nyong'o's casting fits the poem's long-standing exploration of beauty, arguing that selecting a beautiful African actress continues an ancient discussion rather than contradicting it. Nyong'o herself brushed off the criticism, telling Elle magazine that The Odyssey is "a mythological story" and that the cast reflects today's global society. However, some critics raised a different concern, saying Hollywood once again overlooked Greek actors in a story deeply rooted in Greek culture. Greek-British journalist Chris Cotonou argued that if the film aims to represent the world, it should also include performers with direct cultural ties to the source material. The debate has not been limited to casting. After the first trailer was released, some viewers complained that Agamemnon's dark armour looked too similar to Batman's costume, while others argued that Odysseus' ship resembled a Viking vessel instead of one from ancient Greece. Experts say such criticism overlooks the nature of mythology. Professor Susan Deacy, author of The Greek Gods and Their Worlds, said Greek myths have always been reinterpreted by different generations, and each era creates its own version of Homer's stories. Another issue that drew attention was the film's dialogue. Many viewers were surprised to hear British actors, including Tom Holland, speaking with American accents and using modern expressions. Some social media users argued that contemporary speech weakened the historical atmosphere of the film. Deacy said such criticism is based more on cinematic tradition than historical accuracy. She noted that ancient Greeks did not speak either modern American English or formal British English. According to her, conversational language may actually be closer to the original spirit of Homer's oral storytelling than the formal style often used in historical films. Film experts believe the controversy reflects today's online culture, where major productions often become part of wider political and cultural debates. Author Tom Shone, who has written extensively about Nolan's work, said the director's films often allow audiences with different political views to interpret them in different ways. He added that some conservative viewers may feel disappointed because Nolan's latest film appears more progressive than they expected. Despite the criticism, many analysts believe the controversy may ultimately help the film by generating even greater public interest. With its large-scale production, famous cast and fresh interpretation of one of history's greatest literary works, The Odyssey is expected to remain one of the year's biggest cinematic events when it opens in US and UK theatres on July 17. With inputs from BBC.

The Odyssey has released a new trailer, offering audiences the clearest look yet at filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of the classic story by Homer. The latest trailer moves beyond the earlier teaser and gives a stronger sense of the story, focusing on Odysseus’ dangerous journey and the growing unrest in his kingdom of Ithaca. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus and is seen facing violent storms and deadly mythical creatures during his long journey home. One of the trailer’s major highlights is the first appearance of the giant Cyclops Polyphemus, shown holding one of Odysseus’ soldiers. Back in Ithaca, Anne Hathaway appears as Penelope, trying to protect the kingdom during her husband’s absence. Robert Pattinson plays Antinous, the main rival who leads a group seeking to take over the throne. The trailer also introduces several other key characters. Zendaya appears as the goddess Athena, who guides and protects Odysseus, while Charlize Theron plays the powerful sorceress Circe. Other cast members include Jon Bernthal as Menelaus and John Leguizamo as Eumaeus. The film also features Tom Holland, Lupita Nyong'o, Mia Goth and Benny Safdie. The trailer highlights Nolan’s signature large-scale filmmaking style. According to Deadline, the movie was shot entirely with IMAX 70mm cameras using more than two million feet of film. The background score is composed by Ludwig Göransson. Written by Nolan and produced with Emma Thomas under their Syncopy banner, the film will be distributed by Universal Pictures. The Odyssey is scheduled to hit theatres on July 17, 2026. Source NDTV

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has stirred controversy online by criticising acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan amid casting debates for his upcoming epic film The Odyssey. Musk responded on X (formerly Twitter) to a post questioning reports that Lupita Nyong’o might portray Helen of Troy in the movie. The post argued that casting Nyong’o could be "an insult" to the ancient Greek poet Homer, who described Helen as fair-skinned and blonde in The Odyssey, famously dubbing her “the face that launched a thousand ships.” Reacting to the post, Musk tweeted, “Chris Nolan has lost his integrity.” Nyong’o’s potential involvement was first reported by Variety in November 2024, with the film’s title officially revealed in December. Her role in the production remains unconfirmed. The Odyssey features a star-studded ensemble including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, and Elliot Page. Rapper Travis Scott, a ten-time Grammy nominee, has also joined the cast, appearing in a promotional TV spot aired during Fox’s broadcast of the NFL AFC Championship game. The film is being hailed as a technical milestone, marking the first narrative feature to be shot entirely on IMAX cameras. Nolan revealed that a new “blimp” casing system now allows intimate scenes to capture usable sound despite IMAX cameras’ previously loud operation. Details regarding Nyong’o’s character and the official release date for The Odyssey have yet to be announced.   With inputs from NDTV

The first image from Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated film, The Odyssey, has been unveiled, offering a glimpse of Matt Damon as the legendary Greek hero Odysseus. The image, which shows Damon with his back to the camera, depicts him in a warrior’s robe, seemingly just returning from battle after the Trojan War. Produced by Universal Pictures, this star-studded adaptation of Homer’s classic epic poem features an impressive cast, including Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, Benny Safdie, and Jon Bernthal, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The film follows Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, on his treacherous 10-year journey home after the Trojan War. Along the way, he encounters numerous obstacles, including interventions from gods, encounters with mythical beings such as Cyclopes, and challenges posed by his wife's suitors, who are vying for his throne in his absence. Shakira resumes world tour after illness Although details about the film remain scarce, reports suggest that Mia Goth could be playing a siren, a mythical creature whose enchanting voice lures sailors to their doom. Another possibility is that she portrays a deity or a statue. Universal Pictures has yet to confirm these speculations. The supporting cast includes Elliot Page, Himesh Patel, Bill Irwin, and Samantha Morton. With its exploration of heroism, resilience, and intelligence, The Odyssey remains one of Western literature’s most revered works. Nolan’s adaptation is set to bring this timeless tale to the big screen on July 17, 2026.

The much-anticipated release of "Oppenheimer" took place on July 21, 2023. Directed by renowned filmmaker Christopher Nolan, the movie sheds light on the remarkable physicist Julius Robert Oppenheimer, famously known as the “Father of the Atomic Bomb”. This cinematic masterpiece promises to be a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of Oppenheimer's genius, his pivotal role in the Manhattan Project, and the profound moral dilemmas he faced during a critical juncture in human history. As you gear up to watch the film, let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known facts about the remarkable man behind the title. Father of the Atomic Bomb Julius Robert Oppenheimer, also known as the "Father of the Atomic Bomb," was a true wonder, a fifth element, who reshaped the course of history. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, a strong sense of social responsibility, and an unwavering dedication to scientific exploration, Oppenheimer left an indelible mark on the world, leaving us pondering the mysteries of the universe. Oppenheimer followed his curiosity wherever it led, leaving an indelible imprint on the 20th century. He is both the hero and the villain of his story, with a life transcending the boundaries of science and politics. Interesting Facts to Know about the Physicist Oppenheimer Before You Watch the Movie A Quintessential Historical Figure Born on April 22, 1904, Oppenheimer emerged as one of the most influential figures in the world. In the words of Christopher Nolan: "Oppenheimer was the most important person who ever lived in human history." Such high praise from the esteemed filmmaker attests to Oppenheimer's profound impact on the world and the filmmaker. Nolan's film, "Oppenheimer," based on the book "American Prometheus," delves into the life of this enigmatic figure and the monumental Trinity test. Read more: Top 12 South Indian Films Being Released in August 2023 A Film with a Subjective Narrative "Oppenheimer," deemed Christopher Nolan's most ambitious film to date, revolves around the events leading up to the first atomic bomb test on July 6, 1945, seen through the eyes of Oppenheimer himself. Nolan and his team have emphasized the film's subjective narrative in interviews, aiming to offer a unique perspective on Oppenheimer's life. Therefore, exploring the critical events of Oppenheimer's journey can remarkably enrich your movie-watching experience. Affinity for Sanskrit and Hinduism The world associates the Holy Bhagavad Gita’s famous verse, “I am become death, the destroyer of worlds,” with Oppenheimer. After the successful detonation of the Trinity bomb, Oppenheimer found solace in these lines from the Gita, expressing his inner emotional turmoil. While not a devout follower of Hinduism, Oppenheimer often expressed deep admiration and reverence for Hinduism, its literature, and especially Sanskrit.  Oppenheimer's fascination with Sanskrit began during his undergraduate years at Harvard University, where he explored various languages, including Sanskrit. The language's ancient history, intricate grammar, and profound philosophical texts captivated him. His study of Sanskrit became a gateway for him to explore the philosophical depths of Hinduism. His affinity for Hindu philosophy extended beyond academia, encompassing various aspects like cosmic cycles, interconnectedness of all life, and the nature of existence. Read more: Barbie ‘biggest film of 2023’ in US and Canada, Warner Bros says