Christopher Nolan casts Benny Safdie in ‘The Odyssey’ at Universal-OxBig News Network

Benny Safdie in a still from ‘Oppenheimer’
| Photo Credit: Universal

Christopher Nolan is bringing back Oppenheimer collaborator Benny Safdie for his highly anticipated adaptation of The Odyssey. The project, set at Universal, boasts a star-studded cast that includes Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron.

Following the massive success of Oppenheimer, Nolan’s next venture will bring Homer’s legendary epic poem to the big screen in a groundbreaking IMAX format. Universal previously confirmed the film as a “mythic action epic” that will be shot across multiple locations worldwide using new IMAX film technology. The movie is slated for release on July 17, 2026.

One of the most celebrated works of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the long and treacherous journey of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, as he struggles to return home following the Trojan War. Along the way, he faces perilous challenges, including encounters with the Cyclops Polyphemus, the enchantress Circe, and the deadly Sirens, all while striving to reunite with his faithful wife, Penelope.

Safdie, best known for his work as a filmmaker alongside his brother Josh, has recently expanded his acting career with roles in Licorice Pizza, The Stars at Noon, and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. He is also set to make his solo directorial debut with The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne Johnson.

Production on The Odyssey is expected to begin next month, marking Nolan’s second collaboration with Universal after Oppenheimer.