As anticipation builds for Christopher Nolan's upcoming film The Odyssey, releasing in Summer 2026, fans should revisit a key cinematic piece that sets the stage. Following Nolan's acclaimed Oppenheimer, the new adaptation stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, and others, promising an epic production to match his prior works.
The Odyssey follows the story that continues after the Trojan War, originally narrated in Homer's Iliad. While The Odyssey has earned a strong reputation over nearly three millennia, understanding the foundation of the Trojan War enhances the viewing experience.
For those who prefer not to delve into extensive ancient texts, the 2004 film Troy offers a compelling, though creatively adapted, depiction of the Trojan War. Despite mixed reviews, Troy captures the essential dynamics and serves as an excellent introduction.
"For anyone who's into war epics or just wants to get a bearing on the story of the Trojan War before The Odyssey, I strongly encourage looking past Troy's mixed reviews and giving this one a shot."
Author's summary: Watching the 2004 film Troy is a recommended step to grasp the Trojan War story before seeing Nolan's epic The Odyssey in 2026.