Award-winning director Christopher Nolan has chosen the picturesque island of Sicily as a key location for his upcoming adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey.” Shooting is slated to begin in approximately two months on the island of Favignana, part of the Egadi archipelago, which scholars believe might have inspired one of Odysseus’s stops during his legendary voyage.
Favignana, also known as “goat island,” is expected to serve as the backdrop for scenes where Odysseus and his crew land to restock supplies and enjoy a goat barbecue, as described in the epic from around the 8th century BCE. This choice of location not only pays homage to the text’s historical setting but also leverages the natural beauty and historical ambiance of the area.
Nolan, known for his innovative use of film technology, plans to capture parts of this mythical action movie using new Imax film technology, promising a visually spectacular rendition of the ancient tale. Beyond Favignana, Nolan will also utilize Sicily’s Eolian islands for additional filming, although Favignana will host the majority of the Sicilian shoot. Other confirmed filming locations include the U.K. and Morocco.
Production Details
Italy’s Wildside, under the Fremantle banner, will handle the Sicily shoot for “The Odyssey,” with Erik Paoletti serving as the Italian line-producer. This collaboration comes on the heels of Wildside’s involvement in the production of Edward Berger’s “Conclave” in Rome. Neither Wildside nor Universal Pictures provided immediate comments on the specifics of the project.
Star-Studded Cast
The film boasts a formidable ensemble cast, including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron. However, the allocation of roles has not yet been disclosed, keeping fans and critics eagerly speculating.
“The Odyssey” Synopsis
Homer’s “The Odyssey” follows the complex journey of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, back to his homeland after the fall of Troy. Facing numerous trials, including encounters with mythical creatures and the wrath of gods, Odysseus’s quest is also a tale of perseverance, cunning, and loyalty. Key characters include Odysseus’s son Telemachus, his faithful wife Penelope, and gods like Athena, Circe, Poseidon, and Zeus.
With “The Odyssey,” Nolan aims to bring this foundational Western narrative to life, blending his signature directorial style with the epic’s timeless storytelling, promising a cinematic event that bridges ancient myth with modern cinema.
