Christopher Nolan has done it again. His much-awaited epic The Odyssey has received a spectacular response from critics ahead of its worldwide release, debuting with an impressive 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The early reviews suggest that the Oscar-winning filmmaker has delivered yet another cinematic milestone, with many calling it one of the best films of his career.
Based on Homer’s legendary Greek epic, The Odyssey follows the journey of Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War. The film also stars Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron and several other Hollywood heavyweights in pivotal roles.
Critics have praised Nolan's ambitious storytelling, breathtaking visuals and the emotional depth of the film. Many reviewers have described it as a "visual masterpiece" and "one of the year's finest films," applauding its grand IMAX presentation, Hoyte van Hoytema's stunning cinematography and Ludwig Göransson's powerful musical score. Matt Damon's performance as Odysseus has also been singled out for special praise.
Several reviewers have even compared The Odyssey to Nolan's finest works, with some calling it his greatest achievement since Dunkirk. The film's blend of mythology, spectacle and human emotion has been widely appreciated, although a handful of critics felt its emotional core occasionally takes a backseat to its massive scale. Even so, the overwhelming consensus remains highly positive.
The strong critical reception continues Nolan's remarkable streak following the Oscar-winning success of Oppenheimer. With near-universal acclaim already building momentum before release, The Odyssey is expected to be one of the biggest cinematic events of the year when it arrives in theatres on July 17, 2026.