Matt Damon recently shared insights into the unique challenges he faced while filming Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, which is set to be the first feature film shot entirely on Imax cameras. During an appearance on the New Heights podcast, Damon described how the project pushed the boundaries of filmmaking.
He explained that the Imax cameras, known for their powerful image quality, produced significant noise, akin to a blender running at full speed. This posed a challenge for dialogue scenes, as the volume of the cameras made traditional conversations impossible. To address this, the production team constructed a specialized setup that included a large enclosure around the Imax cameras and a system of mirrors, allowing actors to maintain eye contact while still speaking clearly.
Imax CEO Rich Gelfond recalled that Nolan approached him a year prior to filming with the groundbreaking idea of shooting The Odyssey exclusively in Imax. Gelfond noted that Nolan’s ambition came with numerous technical hurdles, but they ultimately found solutions to ensure the vision came to life. “If you can figure out how to solve these problems, I’m going to make Odyssey 100% film with Imax cameras,” Nolan challenged Gelfond, who ultimately succeeded in making this pioneering film a reality.
The Odyssey, premiering on July 17, 2026, in Imax, follows Odysseus, portrayed by Damon, as he navigates a decade of trials and mythical encounters on his journey back home to his wife, Penelope, after the Trojan War. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, and many more, promising a rich cinematic experience.
This ambitious project signifies a thrilling advancement in filmmaking technology and storytelling, ushering in a new era for cinema where imaginative visions can be fully realized. Fans of both classical literature and modern cinema can look forward to witnessing how Imax innovation will enhance this timeless tale.