Christopher Nolan, already a master of sci-fi narratives, seems ready to take on something entirely new. Rumors about Nolan’s next project have circulated for months, but in December, reputable outlets confirmed that his next film will indeed be based on Homer’s The Odyssey. While the poem has been adapted for the big screen before, Nolan’s version will mark his first foray into a particularly complex genre in his 27-year career.
The Odyssey Will Be Nolan’s First Fantasy Film
Though the director has worked with some fantasy elements in his previous films, none compare to the scale required by The Odyssey. Despite its ancient origins, the Greek epic holds up to modern standards of fantastical storytelling—Odysseus’ journey home includes encounters with Cyclops, Scylla and Charybdis, sirens, sea monsters, and other mythical creatures. The upcoming film will be a significant challenge for Nolan, who has never fully embraced the fantasy genre.
Nolan Could Pivot to Another Risky Genre, Where He’s Already Proven Himself
Despite being based on Homer’s poem, Nolan’s The Odyssey doesn’t necessarily need to follow its storyline to the letter. Past adaptations have often borrowed elements from the epic and incorporated them into unique narratives. Additionally, following the success of Oppenheimer, Nolan’s The Odyssey has the potential to become an epic historical drama—a genre where the director has already demonstrated his expertise. However, with months to go before production officially begins, some fans are already voicing concerns about Nolan’s approach to this ambitious project.
