The Odyssey (2026)
Content by Tony Macklin. Originally published on August 9, 2026 @ tonymacklin.net.
The Odyssey is an artful ordeal.
Obviously the form in which you see it is significant.
I went to see it on a Friday in IMAX 70mm at 7 am. It was completely sold out except for one seat in the first row. I declined.
The following Monday I went to see it on a regular screen at 10 am. There were four of us in the theater.
It wasn't an enthralling experience, but it was my kind of screening. No distractions.
It still was impressive if sporadic.
Most people know director Christopher Nolan as a stylistic film-maker, who is dedicated to actual film, not AI. They may not realize what an effective director he is with actors. Heath Ledger won an Oscar for Supporting Actor for The Dark Knight (2008). Robert Downey, Jr. won an Oscar for Supporting Actor in Oppenheimer (2023). And Cillian Murphy won an Oscar for Best Actor in Oppenheimer.
The Odyssey has a great cast. A bulky, 55-year old Matt Damon gives quiet dignity to his role as Odysseus. But Tom Holland is a bit bland as the son. Several actresses give credible performances, especially Samantha Morton as Circe. She's Oscar worthy.
Nolan makes a good choice of showing little blood when the many violent scenes could be awash in blood.
The last major fight is a bit slapdash. But many scenes are potent and effective. It deserves a second viewing.
There is little risk taken in creating most films today.
But Christopher Nolan shows that risk can still pay off.
