Christopher Nolan’s 'The Odyssey' sends Gen Z rushing to Spotify’s audiobook charts

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is making an impact beyond the global box office, driving a significant increase in audiobook streams and book sales of Homer’s ancient epic. The film’s commercial success has introduced a new generation of audiences to one of literature’s most enduring works.

According to Variety, Spotify has recorded a dramatic rise in listenership for The Odyssey audiobook since the film’s release. Across 91 audiobook editions in 10 languages, the epic has been streamed for the equivalent of more than 43 years of continuous listening on the platform.

Spotify reported that audiobook listens jumped by more than 500% on July 17, the day The Odyssey premiered in cinemas. Interest had already been building before the release, with listens increasing by more than 240% in June. Following the premiere, audiobook streams are on pace to rise by approximately 680%.

The streaming platform also revealed that the audiobook has resonated strongly with younger audiences. Gen Z accounts for 36% of listeners, while Millennials make up 45%. Male listeners represent 63% of the total audience.

Lena Yang, Senior Editor for Audiobooks at Spotify, said it is encouraging to see classic literature reaching new audiences through modern storytelling. She noted that audiobooks provide a fresh way for listeners to experience timeless works.

Nolan’s adaptation stars Matt Damon as Odysseus and follows the Greek hero’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War. The film has also boosted sales of Homer’s original text, with print editions of The Odyssey reportedly up 76% this year, highlighting the film’s wider cultural influence beyond the cinema.