Matt Damon Displays Muscular Physique on Set of Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” in Italy Alongside Zendaya
Hollywood stars Matt Damon and Zendaya were recently spotted filming scenes for Christopher Nolan’s highly-anticipated epic fantasy film, “The Odyssey,” in Italy. Damon, known for his role in “Good Will Hunting,” displayed a toned physique while shooting alongside Zendaya on the rocky shores of Favignana Island, Sicily on Tuesday. The production of “The Odyssey,” adapted from Homer’s epic poem, commenced last month and is scheduled to film across various locations including Italy, Greece, Morocco, and the UK.
Damon Takes on Role of Odysseus, Spotted Shirtless
Matt Damon, aged 54, embodying the character of Odysseus, was seen shirtless, showcasing his muscular build as he immersed himself in the role. He was dressed in brown trousers with a frayed hem and sported a gray beard, completing his character’s look. Damon was observed walking along the shoreline and, at one point, stood with director Christopher Nolan, preparing for a scene.
On-Set Moments: Damon in Puffer Jacket and Zendaya’s Elegant Attire
Between takes, Damon was seen wearing a black puffer jacket to ward off the cooler temperatures. He also took breaks seated on the shore as crew members adjusted cameras for upcoming shots. Zendaya, present on “The Odyssey” set this week, wore a sleeveless, cream-colored dress extending to her ankles.
Zendaya’s Appearance and On-Set Demeanor
The “Euphoria” actress had her dark hair styled in a center part, fashioned into a braided updo. She was guided by crew members through a field of yellow flowers before stepping in front of the cameras. Upon arriving at the shore set, Zendaya, who is engaged to Tom Holland, was seen sharing laughter and conversation with a staff member.
Filming Locations and Production Details of “The Odyssey”
Earlier this year, reports confirmed Nolan’s plans to film “The Odyssey” scenes on Favignana Island in Sicily. Favignana, also known as ‘goat island,’ is believed to have inspired Homer’s epic poem. Sources indicate that Nolan intends to film in the Eolian Islands in Sicily as well.
Nolan’s Vision and Star-Studded Cast
Christopher Nolan is not only directing but also writing and producing this action-fantasy film. Reportedly, Nolan is employing innovative IMAX film technology for “The Odyssey.” The film boasts a stellar cast including Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Jon Bernthal, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o.
Plot Synopsis and John Leguizamo’s Insights
The film’s premise centers on Odysseus’s perilous homeward journey after the Trojan War, encountering mythical figures such as Polyphemus, the Sirens, and Circe, culminating in his reunion with his wife Penelope, as per IMDB. John Leguizamo, also cast in the adaptation, recently shared insights into Nolan’s approach to the project.
In an interview, Leguizamo highlighted Nolan’s unique filmmaking style, stating, “He runs [the large budget production] like an indie film because he’s not doing it by committee… He’s like an indie filmmaker but with crazy money.” Nolan, acclaimed for directing films like “Oppenheimer” and “Inception,” has a reported budget of $250 million for “The Odyssey.”
Universal’s Description and Emma Thomas on “Limitless Possibilities”
Universal Pictures describes “The Odyssey” as a “mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new Imax film technology,” bringing Homer’s saga to IMAX screens for the first time, according to Variety. Nolan’s wife and producer, Emma Thomas, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “This is the moment where the possibilities are sort of limitless… Oppenheimer was so absurdly successful and we feel like we have an opportunity.”
Nolan on Large-Scale Filmmaking
In a past interview, Nolan discussed his affinity for directing large-scale movies, stating, “I’m drawn to working at a large scale because I know how fragile the opportunity to marshal those resources is.”