Christopher Nolan has revealed why he chose rapper Travis Scott for a role in his upcoming film 'The Odyssey,' explaining that rap music shares similarities with the oral storytelling tradition behind the ancient Greek epic.
The highly anticipated movie is based on Homer's classic poem and follows Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War. Matt Damon leads the cast, alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Benny Safdie, Elliot Page, Samantha Morton and Mia Goth.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Travis Scott in 'The Odyssey'
In the film's teaser trailer released earlier this year, Tom Holland's character Telemachus is interrupted by Travis Scott during a tense gathering. Scott's character warns about war and the destruction of Troy as dramatic scenes from the battle appear on screen.
Speaking in a new interview with Time magazine, Nolan explained that Scott's casting was inspired by the connection between rap and oral poetry traditions. The filmmaker said he wanted the movie to reflect how stories like 'The Odyssey' were originally passed down through spoken performances, which he believes has a modern parallel in rap music.
Christopher Nolan And Travis Scott's Collaborations
This is not the first time Nolan and Scott have worked together. In 2020, the rapper created the song 'The Plan' for Nolan's sci-fi thriller 'Tenet.' At the time, Nolan praised Scott for his creative insight and contribution to the film's atmosphere and storytelling.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Earlier this month, the full trailer for 'The Odyssey' was released, showcasing large-scale action sequences and the star-studded cast. The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on 17th July, 2026.
Interest in the project has already been massive, with tickets for select IMAX 70mm screenings—Nolan's preferred format—selling out within an hour after going on sale a full year before release.
