Actor John Leguizamo has spoken about his experience filming Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey.
The acclaimed film is now out in cinemas and is based on Homer’s classical epic of the same name, which focuses on Greek king Odysseus (Matt Damon) attempting to return home from war to his beloved wife Penelope (Anne Hathaway) and their son Telemachus (Tom Holland).
Of course, it’s not that simple, as Odysseus faces trials, tribulations and enemies on his way back home.
In the film, Leguizamo has a praised turn as Odysseus’s friend and a wise shepherd with a visual impairment named Eumaeus.
Speaking to Radio Times about the filming process, Leguizamo said: “There was a 900-foot cliff to climb up every day, and I had a visual impairment. There were bad winds, it was freezing cold, and we were wearing togas. For it to look real on film, you need a touch of danger.”
Matt Damon is Odysseus and Zendaya is Athena in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Universal Studios
In response to being asked about the story’s relevance to the modern day, the actor was also very clear in his thoughts.
“This story survived thousands of years because the themes resonate with every generation,” he noted. “Afterwards, I questioned my own life. I walked away thinking. “Have I done the right thing?” I’ve made so many mistakes, but also that family is everything at the end.”
Of course, the actor was familiar with the story before, but not to such a degree as he is now.
Anne Hathaway and Tom Holland in The Odyssey. Universal Pictures
He noted: “In America, we read a kids’ version in high school, and then I read it later at 19. But what Chris was able to capture in those two hours and 52 minutes is unbelievable. It’s emotional, it’s accessible. It hits you on a human level.”
Speaking about how the role of Eumaeus came about, the process was quite simple for Leguizamo’s supporting but memorable role.
“I had lunch with Christopher, and after two hours he offered it to me,” he recalled. “I tried to act not so excited, but I ran home to call my friends. It’s life-changing.”
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Ultimately, Leguizamo’s verdict on the production of The Odyssey could not be more glowing, with praise most resting on Nolan and leading man Matt Damon.
“Matt Damon and Chris were the unifying forces,” he noted. “They both give so much that we all have to rise to that same level. I’ve been in this business for 40 years and I could never have pictured being here. I should retire now.”
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The Odyssey is out in cinemas worldwide now.
Book your £10 seat for the first ever Radio Times Film Night and watch Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey with fellow film fans at Odeon Luxe Islington on Thursday 23 July 2026.
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