Christopher Nolan says The Odyssey ‘directly’ influenced modern film genre

EntertainmentMovie
5 May 2026 • 11:14 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Christopher Nolan says The Odyssey ‘directly’ influenced modern film genre

  • Sir Christopher Nolan stated that modern Marvel and DC superheroes originate "pretty directly" from the Homeric epics, drawing a clear parallel between ancient Greek mythology and contemporary comic book narratives.
  • The acclaimed director, known for his Dark Knight Batman trilogy, is set to release his big-screen adaptation of The Odyssey in July.
  • Nolan discussed the elusive identity of Homer, comparing him to George Lucas, and explained that the epics were "the Marvel of its day" in expressing a desire for gods to walk amongst humans.
  • The film adaptation of The Odyssey will feature a star-studded cast including Tom Holland, Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o.
  • The Odyssey follows Odysseus's long and perilous journey home after the Trojan War, encountering mythical beings, and the film is scheduled for release in cinemas on 17 July.

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