The Odyssey Skips Influencer Screenings

Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated epic The Odyssey is taking an unusual approach to its release, with Universal Pictures opting to skip the now-common practice of holding advance influencer screenings before the film's theatrical debut.

The Odyssey

Instead, the studio plans to screen the film first for professional critics following its world premiere in London on July 6. The decision marks a departure from recent Hollywood marketing strategies, which have relied heavily on social media creators to generate early buzz.

Nolan has long championed the theatrical experience, and many industry observers believe Universal wants the conversation surrounding The Odyssey to begin with traditional film criticism rather than spoiler-filled social media reactions.

Starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, the film follows the legendary Greek king's perilous journey home after the Trojan War. The star-studded cast also includes Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o and Charlize Theron.

Industry analysts project one of the biggest openings of the year, fueled by Nolan's first film since the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer.