Elliot Page, the acclaimed actor known for Juno and The Umbrella Academy, has joined the cast of Christopher Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek epic The Odyssey, as announced by Universal Pictures on January 31, 2025. Directed, written, and produced by Nolan, the film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and chronicles the hero’s perilous 10-year journey home after the Trojan War. Filming began in February 2025 in Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, Iceland, and Western Sahara, with a $250 million budget, making it Nolan’s most expensive project. Set for theatrical release on July 17, 2026, in IMAX and 70 mm formats, the epic features a powerhouse ensemble, positioning Page in a key supporting role amid Nolan’s signature blend of action, mythology, and psychological depth.
A Mythic Journey: Nolan’s Vision for The Odyssey
The Odyssey, one of Western literature’s foundational texts (circa 8th century B.C.), follows Odysseus (Damon) navigating gods, monsters, and temptations like the Cyclops Polyphemus, Sirens, and Circe. Nolan, fresh from Oppenheimer’s 2024 Oscars sweep, began scripting in March 2024, securing the project at Universal by October. “This is a story of human ingenuity against divine odds—timeless and terrifying,” Nolan told Variety. Page’s role, undisclosed but speculated to be a cunning ally like Athena or a tormented suitor, reunites him with Nolan after Inception (2010). The cast includes Tom Holland as Telemachus (Odysseus’s son), Charlize Theron, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong’o, Jon Bernthal, Benny Safdie, Himesh Patel, Bill Irwin, and Samantha Morton, promising a diverse tapestry of ancient lore.
Page’s Pivotal Return: From Inception to Epic
Page, 38, who came out as transgender in 2020, brings emotional nuance to Nolan’s ensemble. “Reuniting with Chris after 15 years feels like coming home to storytelling that challenges everything,” Page said at NYCC on October 12, 2025. His Inception role as Ariadne showcased his ability to navigate complex worlds, a fit for The Odyssey’s labyrinthine narrative. Nolan praised Page’s “fearless authenticity,” per THR. The film’s IMAX-exclusive 70mm format, Nolan’s first entirely in this technology, ensures visceral immersion, with Ludwig Göransson composing the score and Ellen Mirojnick designing costumes blending historical accuracy with mythic flair.
A Fresh Lens on Ancient Myths
For Page, the project is personal—a chance to embody resilience post-Close to You (2023). “Odysseus’s journey mirrors our quests for home and self,” he reflected. The film addresses Nolan’s concerns on AI in cinema, opting for practical effects amid SAG-AFTRA strikes. Fans on X trended #PageInOdyssey with 800,000 posts, celebrating queer representation in epics. In a diverse global audience, The Odyssey asks: Can myths evolve for modern minds? Nolan and Page’s collaboration answers yes, weaving timeless trials with today’s truths.
An Odyssey Reimagined
Elliot Page’s The Odyssey isn’t just casting—it’s a heroic homecoming. As Nolan’s epic sails on July 17, 2026, it promises gods, monsters, and the human heart, proving legends live on through bold visions.
-By Manoj H