The Odyssey premieres today with Iceland filming locations in the spotlight
Odysseus sculpture. Photo: Marie-Lan Nguyen, CC BY 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons.
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey opens in U.S. theaters today, July 17, 2026, and Iceland is part of the conversation around the film's huge real-world landscapes. The film is Nolan's screen version of Homer's ancient Greek epic and stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron.
The official movie site describes The Odyssey as a mythic action epic shot across the world using IMAX film technology. Reports about the production have linked Iceland to some of the movie's darker, wilder visual language: black sand, volcanic caves, glacier-like light, river plains and coastal landscapes that feel made for a journey beyond ordinary geography.
For travelers, that makes the film especially fun to follow. The Iceland locations discussed around the production include Hjorleifshofdi and Yoda Cave on the South Coast, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Markarfljot area, Thorsmork and Landeyjahofn. These are places you can connect into real Iceland itineraries with South Coast tours, Snaefellsjokull and Snaefellsnes travel planning, Katla ice cave and highland-style routes.
The cast and the Iceland shoot
The Iceland part of the story is also interesting because it was a real physical shoot, not just a location name in a press list. Zendaya has spoken about filming in Iceland in extreme cold, saying her first day was so cold that her mouth would not properly move while delivering lines, according to Variety. Icelandic media also followed the production closely: MBL reported on June 24, 2025, that Zendaya had been seen walking around downtown Reykjavik, and noted that Matt Damon was also in Iceland in connection with filming.
Read our full guide to The Odyssey filming locations in Iceland
Black-sand beaches, sea caves and South Coast landscapes are part of the Iceland atmosphere connected with The Odyssey.
Watch the official trailer
The official site lists this as the The Odyssey official trailer.
Why Iceland fits The Odyssey
Iceland is not the Mediterranean, but that contrast is part of the appeal. Nolan's film is based on a story of storms, islands, caves, monsters, gods and a long road home. Iceland's volcanic beaches, glacier country, sea cliffs and empty river valleys can make myth feel physical without relying on studio fantasy.
Our full guide goes deeper into the places, how they connect to the movie-location story, and which Fun Iceland tours can get you close to similar scenery. Start with the full guide here: The Odyssey Filming Locations in Iceland. You can also visit the official movie site for tickets, videos and release information.