Matt Damon takes on the legendary role of Odysseus in Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of The Odyssey, with key scenes filmed across Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
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Iceland is no stranger to stardom — its surreal landscapes have doubled for everything from other planets to fantastical kingdoms. But this summer, it’s playing host to something even more legendary: The Odyssey, the hotly anticipated epic film directed by Christopher Nolan, is filming right here in Iceland.
This marks Nolan’s third major production in the country (following Batman Begins and Interstellar), and with a staggering $250 million budget, it’s shaping up to be his most ambitious film yet. Based on Homer’s ancient Greek epic poem, this adaptation tells the story of Odysseus’s perilous 10-year journey home after the fall of Troy — and Iceland’s untamed beauty is the perfect backdrop for that legendary voyage.
Hollywood A-Listers touch down in Iceland
Reykjavík’s streets and cafés have been exciting as Hollywood royalty strolls through the capital. The film features a stacked cast, including:
- Matt Damon as Odysseus
- Tom Holland as Telemachus, his son
- Zendaya as the goddess Athena
- Anne Hathaway
- Robert Pattinson
- Charlize Theron
- Lupita Nyong’o
- Elliot Page
- Jon Bernthal, Jovan Adepo, Jesse Garcia, and more.
Zendaya was recently spotted shopping at vintage boutique Mamma Mia in Reykjavík’s city center. Matt Damon strolled through the capital. Icelandic social media lit up as fans caught glimpses of the stars.
Where in Iceland is The Odyssey filmed?
Details are tightly under wraps. However, we know this much: filming began in late June and will continue for 12 days. Scenes are shot across remote and rugged locations that match the mythical tone of the story.
Key locations include:
- Landeyjahöfn (South Coast): A full-scale ship was reportedly constructed near the harbor, likely Odysseus’s vessel. Visitors have even glimpsed parts of the set near the harbor.
- Icelandic Highlands: Vast, dramatic, and untouched, these landscapes are ideal for Odysseus’s trials, including encounters with the Cyclops and Sirens.
- Glacier areas: Rumors suggest glaciers are used for dramatic, dreamlike sequences, fitting Nolan’s trademark love for surreal, practical environments.
The production is massive in scale. Up to 1,000 people are involved, including 450 Icelandic extras, and it is being coordinated locally by Truenorth, Iceland’s powerhouse production services company.
A Modern take on a timeless tale
For those unfamiliar, The Odyssey is a cornerstone of Western literature. The sequel to The Iliad, it chronicles King Odysseus’s struggle to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. He faces monsters, gods, and temptations. His resilience and cunning are legendary.
The Odyssey is filmed entirely on an IMAX camera. This will give viewers a truly immersive experience. Nolan writes, produces, and directs the film himself, with longtime collaborators including:
- Emma Thomas (producer)
- Hoyte van Hoytema (cinematography)
- Ludwig Göransson (music)
- Ellen Mirojnick (costume design)
Iceland: A star in its own right
This is Iceland’s biggest film production since Flags of Our Fathers in 2005. It continues the country’s reputation as a magnet for cinematic storytelling. Iceland offers filmmakers something truly unique: landscapes that feel otherworldly yet grounded, perfect for both fantasy and drama. Productions such as Game of Thrones, Star Wars, and The Odyssey showcase Iceland as a wonderland for filmmakers.
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