'The Odyssey' sparks Oscar buzz as early reactions pour in

Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated epic 'The Odyssey' is already generating strong awards-season momentum ahead of its global release, with early reactions praising its breathtaking scale and Matt Damon's performance as a potential Oscar contender.

The first wave of social media responses has described the film as "staggering," "breathtaking," and "a filmmaking feast," with critics applauding Nolan's ambitious adaptation of Homer's classic epic.

Many reviewers have singled out the film's expansive IMAX cinematography, saying its sweeping sailing sequences and large-scale battle scenes deliver an immersive cinematic experience designed for the biggest screens.

Early viewers have also hailed the production as Nolan's most ambitious work to date, not only for its visual scope but also for its emotional depth. While some reactions suggest parts of the film are uneven, many agree that its climactic final act delivers a rewarding conclusion.

At the centre of the acclaim is Matt Damon, whose portrayal of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, is being widely described as one of the finest performances of his career. His role has already fuelled speculation that he could emerge as an early favourite in next year's Best Actor race.

The ensemble cast, featuring Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o and several other Hollywood stars, has also drawn praise for blending emotional vulnerability with the grandeur of Greek mythology.

The film marks Nolan's 13th feature and his first venture into classical mythology following the Oscar-winning success of 'Oppenheimer'. It retells Homer's ancient tale of Odysseus, who embarks on a perilous journey home after the Trojan War while confronting gods, mythical creatures and the consequences of his own decisions before reuniting with his wife, Penelope.

Universal Pictures has positioned 'The Odyssey' as its flagship summer release, with the worldwide rollout beginning on July 17 after a series of high-profile premieres in London, Paris, New York, Beijing and Seoul.

Meanwhile, Tom Holland has shared a behind-the-scenes story about the casting of his fiancée, Zendaya, in the film. Speaking to Access Hollywood, Holland revealed that Nolan personally asked whether he would object to Zendaya being cast as the goddess Athena.

Holland recalled initially expecting an entirely different question before Nolan asked whether he would mind if Zendaya joined the cast. "Why would I be offended?" Holland said he replied, adding that he would be honoured to see her take on the role. He later encouraged Zendaya to read the screenplay again, hinting that Nolan had a role in mind for her.

Alongside Damon, Holland and Zendaya, the star-studded cast includes harlize Theron, Benny Safdie, John Leguizamo, Himesh Patel, Samantha Morton, Elliot Page, Mia Goth and Bill Irwin.

With early reactions overwhelmingly positive, 'The Odyssey' is already being tipped as one of the year's biggest cinematic events and a leading contender for next awards season.