The long-standing speculation about Christopher Nolan's next film has been put to rest, with Universal confirming that the acclaimed director will helm an adaptation of Homer's classic epic, "The Odyssey." 

The film will portray the legendary journey of Odysseus as he navigates treacherous waters on his return home following the Trojan War.

"Christopher Nolan's next film 'The Odyssey' is a mythic action epic shot across the world using groundbreaking IMAX film technology," the studio stated. "For the first time, Homer's foundational saga will be brought to IMAX screens, debuting worldwide on July 17, 2026."

The film boasts a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron.

Nolan is no stranger to period films, having previously directed the Oscar-winning "Oppenheimer," which detailed the creation of the atomic bomb, and "The Prestige," based on Christopher Priest's novel about two rival magicians in 1890s London.

However, "The Odyssey" marks a significant departure for the director. Homer's epic, dating back to the 8th century BC, features gods, goddesses, and mythological creatures—a genre Nolan has not yet explored. Despite this, Nolan has proven his ability to tackle ambitious narratives, making Batman resonate with post-9/11 audiences and grounding sci-fi concepts like shared dreams in "Inception" and space travel in "Interstellar."

Homer's "The Odyssey" has been adapted multiple times, notably with Kirk Douglas in the 1954 film "Ulysses." It has also influenced other works, such as the Coen brothers' "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" in 2000. 

The Trojan War itself has been depicted in films like 2004's "Troy," starring Brad Pitt as Achilles and Sean Bean as Odysseus. Notably, Nolan was considered to direct "Troy" before landing the "Batman Begins" gig.

Nolan's stellar year began with his first-ever Oscar wins for "Oppenheimer," which earned him the Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director. The year ended on a high note as well, with Nolan being Knighted by King Charles in a ceremony last week.

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