Christopher Nolan Will Approach ‘The Odyssey’s Mythological Elements in a “Real-World Way”

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Christopher Nolan, the director of acclaimed films like Oppenheimer, The Dark Knight, and Inception, is tackling a very different kind of story: an adaptation of Homer’s epic poem. Known for realistic filmmaking and using real effects whenever possible, many wondered how he would handle the mythical elements of the tale. Now, Nolan has shared his plans, and some fantasy fans might not be thrilled.

In a recent interview with Empire, director Christopher Nolan shared that he plans to portray the fantastical, or “mythological,” aspects of his new film in a realistic and believable manner. He aims to depict even gods and other mythical beings as if they could exist in the real world, a choice that is likely to fuel ongoing debate and controversy surrounding the movie.

I really focused on finding a way to portray mythological elements as if they were part of everyday life. The key to reimagining the gods was realizing that things we now explain with science were once considered supernatural. People didn’t just believe in gods—they saw them in action in things like lightning, thunder, and earthquakes. I don’t want to reveal too much, but the evidence of the supernatural is definitely present in their world and deeply affects their lives. Exploring that idea is a lot of fun.

Is Making ‘The Odyssey’ in a “Real-World Way” the Right Thing to Do?


Unverisal Pictures

I have to admit, questioning Christopher Nolan – the guy’s a box office and critical success – feels a little silly, but I can’t help but wonder about his approach to The Odyssey. I was really hoping he’d fully embrace the mythical, fantastical side of the story, and it sounds like he might be aiming for something more grounded in reality. Still, the way he’s talking about turning the supernatural into something scientific reminds me of how they handled Thor and magic in the Marvel movies, so maybe there’s hope for more mythology than we think. Honestly, I trust Nolan’s vision, but I suspect a lot of us who were dreaming of a truly epic fantasy filled with gods and magic might be a little let down.

The new film, The Odyssey, starring Joaquin Phoenix as Odysseus, tells the story of the king of Ithaca’s dangerous journey home after the Trojan War. It boasts a remarkable cast, including Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, Benny Safdie, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Elliot Page, Mia Goth, Corey Hawkins, Jon Bernthal, Cosmo Jarvis, Himesh Patel, Samantha Morton, John Leguizamo, Will Yun Lee, Logan Marshall-Green, James Remar, and many other well-known actors – a testament to director Christopher Nolan’s desire to fill the screen with stars.

The Odyssey is scheduled to land in theaters on July 17, 2026, courtesy of Universal Pictures.

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2025-11-21 16:24