'The Odyssey' trailer criticised over modern accents and dialogue ahead of July release

The latest trailer for Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey has prompted mixed reactions, with some viewers questioning the use of American accents and modern dialogue in a story rooted in ancient Greece.

The film, set for release on July 17, features a cast including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland and Robert Pattinson.

Criticism has focused on specific lines from the trailer, including Robert Pattinson’s use of “daddy” and Matt Damon’s delivery of “Let’s go!”, which some viewers said felt out of place within the historical setting.

Reactions shared on platforms such as Reddit and X suggested that more traditional accents and period-appropriate language may have better aligned with expectations for a retelling of Homer’s epic.

The film is positioned as one of the major releases of 2026, with a reported budget of $250 million and the distinction of being the first production shot entirely on IMAX cameras.

Nolan’s adaptation follows Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War, combining large-scale action with mythological storytelling.

The debate around accents and dialogue reflects wider discussions about historical authenticity and creative interpretation in large-scale productions.

While some viewers expressed concerns about immersion, others have responded positively to the film’s scale and ambition.

Cast members have also offered support for Nolan’s approach. Tom Holland described the project in positive terms, stating, "I can tell you that it is an absolute masterpiece, and I’m taking myself out of that equation. Chris Nolan's movie is fantastic. It's unlike anything that I've ever seen before. I think when I saw the movie, I found myself asking a question that I haven’t asked about a movie for a long time, which is, 'How did you do that?'"

Nolan announced the project in December 2024 following his Oscar win for Oppenheimer, describing the story as one audiences “all kind of know a bit about” while aiming to present a new perspective.