Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' draws casting controversy amid unprecedented IMAX 70mm ambition

Director Christopher Nolan describes his upcoming film "The Odyssey" as "the most engaging and extreme version of a story" he can imagine, aiming to push the limits of cinematic experience. The production will be the first feature shot entirely in IMAX 70mm, with Nolan filming around two million feet of celluloid across Greece, Iceland, Morocco, Italy and Scotland. The ensemble cast includes Matt Damon (Odysseus), Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson and Jon Bernthal. Damon called it "the hardest film I've ever done".

Online backlash has focused on Nyong’o’s casting as Helen of Troy and rumors that Elliot Page might portray the ghost of Achilles. Critics, largely from trolling communities, have amplified discussion of the film. Analysts suggest the controversy could increase public awareness and drive box‑office attendance, keeping the movie in the cultural conversation ahead of its release.