The first critics’ reactions have come from Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, which held its premiere last night (July 6) in London.

The Oscar-winning director’s follow-up to Oppenheimer is an adaptation of the epic poem by Greek writer Homer, and stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, a king making the perilous voyage home after a long war. It was recently revealed the film would screen for critics only after forgoing influencer screenings, and those critics have delivered a near-unanimous verdict.

“Christopher Nolan’s #TheOdyssey is an absolute triumph and a crowning cinematic achievement from one of the great filmmakers of our time,” said Fandango’s Erik Davis on X (formerly Twitter). “What really surprised me is how much he embraces horror. Some of the film’s biggest moments are genuinely unsettling, adding a whole new dimension to his filmmaking while never losing sight of the humanity at the story’s core. The cast is stacked, and somehow everyone still gets a chance to shine. Anne Hathaway is incredible, Matt Damon is excellent, and Tom Holland continues to prove he can do just about anything. But Robert Pattinson absolutely stole the show for me.”

Critic Matt Neglia wrote: “Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey is as epic as movies get with some of the most breathtaking set pieces he’s ever attempted,” adding: “I grew up loving grand, sword and action dramas such as Gladiator, Braveheart, The Last Samurai, and yes, even Troy. I’m beyond thrilled to say Nolan’s ambitious dissection of myth and legend looms large over them all.”

Writer Simon Thompson posted: “Christopher Nolan’s #TheOdyssey is flawless filmmaking, every inch as epic as you’d expect. Leading a stellar cast, Matt Damon gives Odysseus everything in a career-best powerhouse performance. Robert Pattinson is outstanding as Antinous and John Leguizamo’s Eumaeus is sublime.”

One influencer did get to see it, with TikTok critic EccyReviews writing: “I HAVE SEEN The Odyssey, Not even the gods can prepare you for this film. Groundbreaking film, an experience I’ll never forget.”

The Odyssey is in cinemas from July 17.

Recently, cast member Tom Holland talked about how he initially thought Nolan hated his performance.

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