THE ODYSSEY

The Odyssey (2026)

Written & Directed by: Christopher Nolan

The Odyssey (2026)

Written & Directed by: Christopher Nolan

The bulk of this film plays more like a series of fragmented episodes featuring different sets of characters. Transitions between scenes lack fluidity.

Certain moments resemble teaser trailers, relying on grand musical scoring to suggest something monumental is about to happen. Yet those payoffs are repeatedly postponed until the finale, leaving much of the experience anticlimactic.

Stretching the film to three hours is unnecessary, with the excitement constantly rising and falling instead of building naturally and gradually.

The star-studded cast makes it look like the movie event of the year, but it feels like bait just to draw audiences in. Many of them have very limited screen time and are underutilized. They seem to be there for their popularity and marketing sake.

The chance of seeing them truly work together never comes to fruition. Instead, the ensemble feels like a collection of isolated pieces, as though they only come together on premiere nights.

Tom Holland is pretty okay, but he needs a far more transformative performance to get past his sweet wholesome image. Zendaya just passes through without leaving much of an impact.

Anne Hathaway comes across more as a classy modern woman in a fashion editorial than as a Greek queen waiting for her husband.

Some of the actors do leave an impressive mark. With her convincingly eerie and disturbing portrayal, Samantha Morton can easily lead a horror film. Charlize Theron has an ethereal presence. One can see John Leguizamo’s grounded nature, loyalty, and inner goodness.

Robert Pattinson’s gritty performance and striking facial expressions work well for his character, making his scenes all the more effective.

When the film begins to drag, Matt Damon consistently remains a steady anchor you can rely on because his character navigates every challenge with reason and wisdom.

He collects the lessons he discovers along the way and uses them as a weapon to become better. As the plot develops, so does his character.

The monsters and quests initially serve as formidable adversaries, but their collective underlying meaning helps enrich the story. While the action scenes can be exciting at times, it’s actually the message that stands out.

Odysseus’ evolving perception of war becomes the sweetest meaning of victory. Finding peace and solace is difficult in a world consumed by anger and hatred, yet it takes even greater courage to admit mistakes and grow from them.

Like a Trojan Horse, the film looks sleek and tough on the outside, but beneath its exterior lies a story that’s thoughtful and humane.

At its core, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘥𝘺𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘺 is a journey that is both reflective and introspective. It’s a battle waged both on the outside and within.

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐃𝐘𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐘

Cast: Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Samantha Morton, John Leguizamo, Himesh Patel, Elliot Page, Benny Safdie

Based on the epic poem: The Odyssey by Homer

Presented by: Syncopy, Universal Pictures

Release Date: July 15, 2026 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews