An Unexpected Introduction to Temptation

The actor’s introduction to the genre was not a planned viewing event but rather a happy accident born of a schedule delay . Damon explained to Poehler that his children, who are avid fans of the popular series Love Island, had organized a viewing party during a visit from family friends . “So, my kids are watching this thing called Love Island,” Damon remarked, noting that he had not previously been a viewer of the franchise . When the scheduled episode of Love Island failed to air until 9:00 PM, the group — which included Damon, his daughters, and a visiting friend’s teenage child — began channel surfing to pass the time .

It was during this interval that they stumbled upon Temptation Island, a series known for its high-octane interpersonal conflict and romantic testing grounds . Damon recalled asking the group if they wanted to give the show a "shot for an hour" while they waited . The result was an immediate and visceral reaction to the show’s premise, which involves couples living separately in villas filled with attractive singles to test the strength of their existing relationships . Reflecting on the experience, Damon told Poehler, “I mean, it did not disappoint,” citing the sheer comedic value of the contestants' dramatic interactions .

Laughter and Family Bonding

For Damon, the appeal of the show lay less in the romantic stakes and more in the "chaotic" nature of the contestants' decisions and self-confidence . He joked about the "ruthless" confidence displayed by individuals who believed they could easily tempt a partnered person away from their relationship . The actor and his daughters spent the evening laughing together as they reacted to the confessional interviews and the often-absurd relationship dynamics presented on screen .

Poehler, 54, joined in the laughter, expressing her own curiosity about the series, though Damon warned her, “I don’t know how long you’ll last” . While the family made it through a full episode, Damon remains skeptical about whether he will become a long-term devotee of the series . “I don’t know if I’ll hang in there,” he admitted, though he emphasized that the shared experience with his children was genuinely funny and memorable .

Parenting and the Modern Media Landscape

Matt Damon’s home life is notably female-centric; he shares four daughters — Alexia, 27; Isabella, 20; Gia, 17; and Stella, 15 — with his wife, Luciana Barroso . His willingness to engage in his daughters’ interests, even those as polarizing as reality television, highlights a modern approach to fatherhood that prioritizes shared time and open communication . In an affirming, person-first context, Damon’s storytelling reflects the importance of supporting young people’s media choices while maintaining a humorous and grounded perspective as a parent .

The actor’s podcast appearance also touched upon the broader challenges of parenting in the spotlight . Damon has often been vocal about the "ruthless" nature of Hollywood ambition and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between a demanding career and his role as a father . By participating in his daughters’ "watch parties," he bridges the gap between his professional life and the cultural trends that define his children’s generation .

Reality TV as a Cultural Phenomenon

The shows Damon discussed, Love Island and Temptation Island, have seen a significant resurgence in recent years . Temptation Island, which originally premiered on Fox in 2001, has successfully transitioned through three separate runs and is currently in its 10th overall season, with recent installments finding a broad audience on streaming platforms like Netflix . The show’s ability to capture the attention of high-profile viewers like Damon speaks to the enduring appeal of "social experiment" television, which often uses extreme scenarios to explore fundamental questions about human loyalty and desire .

Similarly, Love Island has become a staple of summer television, particularly among Gen Z and millennial viewers . Its "bombshell" strategies andvilla dynamics provide a constant stream of social media discourse, making it a nearly unavoidable cultural touchstone . For celebrities like Damon, these shows offer a stark contrast to the scripted, prestige projects they typically inhabit, providing a form of "guilty pleasure" that facilitates family bonding and lighthearted discussion .

The Professional Path: From Reality TV to 'The Odyssey'

Despite his newfound appreciation for the humor of reality TV, Damon’s professional focus remains firmly on high-concept cinema . The actor is currently promoting his role in Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated upcoming film, The Odyssey . The contrast between the philosophical and technical rigors of a Nolan set and the unscripted chaos of Temptation Island was not lost on Damon during his conversation with Poehler .

Damon’s career has often navigated the space between blockbusters and intimate, character-driven stories . As he moves into this next phase of his professional life, his ability to remain relatable and connected to popular culture — even through the lens of a dating show — continues to endear him to fans . Whether discussing the nuances of an epic film or the comedic timing of a reality contestant, Damon maintains a consistent voice of curiosity and humor .

Conclusion: A Relatable Fatherhood Moment

The story of Matt Damon’s unintentional binge-watching session serves as a reminder of the universal nature of modern family dynamics . Even for one of the world’s most recognizable actors, a quiet evening at home often involves the same simple pleasures found in any other household: laughter, shared entertainment, and the occasionally baffling trends of the younger generation . By sharing these moments, Damon reinforces a persona that is as much a devoted "girl dad" as it is a Hollywood powerhouse .

While it remains to be seen if Damon will tune in for the finale of Temptation Island Season 10, his brief residency at the "villas" has already provided plenty of material for his next podcast appearance . For now, the actor seems content to leave the relationship tests to the contestants while he focuses on his family and his upcoming return to the big screen .

The Social Media Disclosure

The information surfaced on July 10, 2026, when the Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Ontario, shared a "camera wrap" announcement on its official Instagram account . The museum, which serves as a frequent filming location for major productions, explicitly named the actors involved in the shoot. According to screenshots preserved by fans and news outlets, the post read: "That’s camera wrap on Parkwood’s role in the Sarah Polley directed film, The Bell Jar, starring Billie Eilish in her cinematic debut, along with Connor Storrie" .

In addition to naming Storrie, the museum shared that a greenhouse staff member had prepared a custom floral bouquet to welcome Eilish to the historic property . The post was deleted shortly after it was published, a move often associated with efforts to maintain production secrecy and control the flow of casting information in high-profile projects . Despite the deletion, the confirmation that Storrie and Eilish filmed scenes together at the site has become a focal point of discussion for fans and industry observers .

Adapting a Literary Classic

"The Bell Jar" is an adaptation of Sylvia Plath’s semi-autobiographical 1963 novel, which chronicles the life of Esther Greenwood, a young woman navigating a descent into mental illness during a prestigious magazine internship in New York City . Sarah Polley, who won an Academy Award for her screenplay for "Women Talking," is directing the project and has written the screenplay .

The film is produced by Brad Pitt’s Plan B Entertainment, alongside StudioCanal and Live Nation Productions . Focus Features is handling the domestic distribution and financing of the film, which is reportedly targeting a 2027 premiere at a major film festival .

Billie Eilish’s Cinematic Transition

Billie Eilish, 24, is set to portray the lead character, Esther Greenwood . While "The Bell Jar" marks her first leading role in a feature film, Eilish previously made her acting debut in a guest role on the 2023 Amazon Prime series "Swarm" . Her involvement in the project was first reported as "in advanced negotiations" in March 2026 . Eilish has frequently expressed that film acting has been a "long-held dream" for her .

The selection of Polley to direct has been viewed as a natural fit, given her history of sensitive and critically acclaimed character-driven narratives . The production is expected to feature a 1950s aesthetic, with casting calls in the Toronto area seeking background performers willing to adapt their appearance to the mid-century style .

Connor Storrie’s Rising Career and LGBTQ+ Visibility

Connor Storrie has experienced a rapid rise in visibility following his breakout performance in "Heated Rivalry," a queer hockey drama series . The series has been praised for its representation of LGBTQ+ people within the professional sports world, and Storrie’s performance earned him a significant following .

Storrie is currently attached to several high-profile projects, including two films from A24: "Peaked," directed by Molly Gordon, and "Please," directed by Halina Reijn . He is also set to appear in "Turpentine," directed by Craig Zobel .

His involvement in "The Bell Jar" is particularly noteworthy as he continues to transition from television success to prestige cinema . While his specific role in the film remains undisclosed, the leak indicates he was present for filming during the summer production window in Ontario .

Storrie recently commented on the production of the second season of "Heated Rivalry," suggesting that while the scripts were still being finalized earlier this year, filming was expected to begin as soon as this summer . Producers for the series later confirmed that production for Season 2 would kick off in August 2026 . The timeline of his work on "The Bell Jar" appears to precede the resumption of his duties on the hockey series.

Filming and Production Timeline

Principal photography for "The Bell Jar" began in Toronto on June 22, 2026 . Production notices issued by ACTRA Toronto indicate that the shoot is scheduled to run through September 2, 2026 .

The Parkwood National Historic Site, where the leaked post originated, has served as a filming location for various notable films, including "X-Men," "Billy Madison," and "The Dead Zone" . The estate’s grand architecture and gardens likely provide the backdrop for the more affluent environments encountered by Esther Greenwood during her internship .

Future Outlook

Despite the deleted post, the lack of an official confirmation from Focus Features or Sarah Polley leaves some room for speculation regarding the extent of Storrie’s role . However, the specificity of the museum’s "camera wrap" message and the mention of both Storrie and Eilish together has been widely accepted by major news outlets as a definitive link between the actors and the project .

As filming continues across Ontario, the industry remains focused on Eilish’s transition to the big screen. The pairing of a modern pop icon with a director known for deep, philosophical adaptations of literature has made "The Bell Jar" one of the most talked-about upcoming releases of 2027 . Fans of Connor Storrie also anticipate his performance, viewing this role as a significant milestone in a career that has already championed diverse and inclusive narratives .

Lyrical Themes and the "Metamorphosis" Narrative

The primary catalyst for the current "bisexual" fan theories is the lyrical content of the standout track "Oscilloscope." Listeners on platforms like TikTok and X quickly picked apart the official lyrics, which features Wolfhard singing the lines, "A pretty guy. A pretty guy," followed later in the track by, "A pretty girl. A pretty girl."

The track’s production, described as a confident leap into raw indie rock, was heavily analyzed alongside a promotional interview with Far Out Magazine published on July 10, 2026. In the profile, Wolfhard remarked, "There's one track called 'Oscilloscope.' I would have never have done that on the first album." While the musician was speaking strictly about the track's complex sonic composition and adventurous arrangement, fans isolated the quote on social media to claim it was an intentional double-entendre regarding a personal milestone.

A History of Ambiguous Statements

The current fan fervor highlights a broader tension between public curiosity and celebrity privacy. Unlike the rumors circulating on social media, archival records show that Wolfhard has never publicly commented on his sexual orientation. He has historically resisted providing definitive labels for his personal life, previously asking audiences not to over-obsess or project romantic narratives onto his real-life relationships.

The Influence of "Stranger Things" and Co-Stars

The speculation is also heavily influenced by the "coming out" of his Stranger Things co-star and close friend Noah Schnapp , who confirmed his gay identity in early 2023 . At the time, Wolfhard expressed that he was "really proud" of Schnapp, stating he had a "big smile on his face" upon hearing the news .

The character dynamics within the show, particularly the confirmed unrequited feelings that Schnapp’s character, Will Byers, has for Wolfhard’s Mike Wheeler, have long fueled "Byler" fan theories . Fans have often conflated the actor's personal identity with the LGBTQ+ themes explored in his projects, including his role as Richie Tozier in IT Chapter Two, a character whose attraction to his male best friend was a central plot point .

Current Status and Future Plans

Despite the renewed speculation across online communities, Wolfhard has remained characteristically focused on the music during his press cycle. Speaking on the creative process behind Fire From the Hip, he cited classic influences like Pavement and Elliott Smith as major inspirations for the album's analog feel. As fans continue to analyze the lyrics of "Oscilloscope" and other tracks for personal revelations, the actor-musician continues to champion artistic authenticity over public declarations—a stance that lets the music speak entirely for itself.

Wolfhard is scheduled to begin a North American headline tour on July 17, 2026, starting at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C. . While fans continue to analyze the lyrics of "I'll Let You Finish" and other tracks for personal revelations, the actor has reiterated that he is "keeping it open" regarding his future, both in his career and his private life . As of July 10, 2026, Wolfhard continues to champion "authenticity" over specific public declarations, a stance that has made him a relatable figure for many LGBTQ+ youth navigating their own identities without the need for immediate labels .

Evolution of the Series

Since its debut in 2022, Heartstopper has been celebrated for its heartwarming and often chaste depiction of queer teenage love. However, as the characters have aged from mid-teens to young adults nearing university, both the cast and creator Alice Oseman have acknowledged the need for the narrative to mature alongside them . Locke previously noted that the show’s "mushy" early stages became "old hat" as the actors grew more comfortable, leading to a deliberate shift toward exploring physical intimacy in Season 3 and the subsequent finale film .

In the context of the upcoming film Heartstopper Forever, Locke explained that avoiding the reality of sexual relationships at this stage of Nick and Charlie's lives would feel disingenuous to the audience and the source material . The film is expected to follow the central couple as they navigate the challenges of long-distance relationships and the physical milestones of early adulthood .

Filming and Professional Standards

The transition to more mature content has been managed with a focus on actor safety and comfort. Locke and co-star Kit Connor, who plays Nick Nelson, have spoken extensively about the "clinical" and "dance-like" nature of filming intimate sequences . The production has consistently utilized the expertise of intimacy coordinator David Thackeray, who has worked with the cast since the first season to ensure all physical scenes are choreographed and consensual .

During the filming of Season 3, which paved the way for the movie’s themes, the lead actors reportedly spent approximately seven hours filming intimate sequences . Locke shared that while the process is professionally "weird" due to the presence of crew members and technical requirements, the trust established between himself and Connor over four years of working together made the experience "wonderful" and "necessary for the characters" .

Impact on LGBTQ+ Representation

The decision to include sex scenes in a show previously known for its "PG" tone has sparked discussion about LGBTQ+ representation on screen. Locke has challenged the "hyper-sexualization" often seen in gay media, advocating instead for the "realistic" and "functioning" depiction of queer teenagers and young adults . He has humorously noted that "Heartstopper fans are much hornier than they realize," suggesting that the audience is prepared for the characters to take these next steps .

By centering these experiences in the finale film, the production aims to provide a comprehensive look at the realities of queer youth, moving beyond the "coming out" narrative into the complexities of sustained relationships . Locke has expressed that the film serves as a "really nice closing chapter," offering a sense of closure for fans who have followed the characters' journey from their first meeting .

Final Farewell to the Characters

As filming for Heartstopper Forever concluded in July 2025, Locke reflected on the "weird mourning process" of leaving the character of Charlie Spring behind after nearly half a decade . The actor shared a final tribute on social media, thanking the character for the impact he had on his life . The film, which runs approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, will be the definitive end of the series on Netflix .

With the release of Heartstopper Forever on July 17, 2026, the franchise concludes its mission of providing affirming, visible stories for LGBTQ+ people, ensuring that even its more mature moments are handled with the same care and respect that defined its beginnings .

The Revelation in Therapy

Caperna, 36, explained to viewers that for most of her life, she had viewed a specific childhood encounter with a male peer through a lens of shame and confusion rather than as a non-consensual act . "When I was in school, I had a situation happen with another boy… put his hands on me," Caperna stated during the broadcast . She further detailed that she had "pretended like it was some sort of, like, consensual hookup," but realized in hindsight that the reality was far different .

The realization only came to the surface approximately one year ago during a therapy session . According to Caperna, her therapist was the first to use the term "sexual assault" to describe the incident . Caperna described her physical and emotional reaction at the time of the assault as a "freeze" response . "I didn't fight him off or push him away. I just froze and let this thing happen to me," she shared, adding that the discovery was "a lot to process" .

Public Accountability and Social Media Response

Following the airing of the episode, Caperna took to Instagram on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, to address her followers directly about the vulnerability of sharing such a private trauma on a global platform . In her post, she expressed a mix of fear and transparency, noting that she felt paralyzed by the weight of the disclosure . "Today it really hit me that what I shared is going to be out in the world to be judged, talked about and picked apart," she wrote, confessing that she spent the day "not being able to move" .

Caperna also noted that while she had months to prepare for the episode's airing, she struggled to discuss the matter with her own inner circle beforehand . She expressed a desire to "stuff the words back in my mouth" at times to avoid the pain she has carried since age 12, yet acknowledged that "what's done is done" .

Connection to 'The Valley' Season 2 Controversy

The timing of Caperna's disclosure is directly connected to ongoing friction within the cast. The on-screen conversation with Lala Kent was prompted by the group navigating the fallout of costar Danny Booko's behavior, after he inappropriately touched castmate Jasmine Goode while intoxicated. Experiencing and witnessing the group's handling of the situation served as an intense emotional trigger for Caperna, prompting her to process her own deep-rooted trauma. Following the episode's broadcast, Caperna specifically used her social media platform to thank Jasmine Goode and Melissa Carelli for their grace, moving forward to repair their friendships after the emotional strain of the season's events.

Moving Forward

By coming forward, Caperna joins a growing number of public figures who have highlighted the complexities of repressed trauma and the vital role of therapy in identifying past abuse . Her story emphasizes that the understanding of one's own experiences can evolve over time, particularly for those who were victimized at a young age and lacked the vocabulary or support to process the event at the time it occurred .

Fans and advocates have largely responded with support for Caperna’s bravery, though she remains candid about the difficulty of having her "childhood trauma follow everywhere" now that it is part of the public record .

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, help is available. You can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit RAINN's website for confidential support.

The exchange reached a peak of comedic camaraderie when Bublé revealed how he reacted when journalists first asked him about the viral headlines. "My only thought was, 'It's reciprocal,'" Bublé explained to the brothers, adding that he told reporters he is a fan of their catalog as well. "Like, dude, 'I’m a sucker for you.'" This playful confirmation solidified the mutual respect between the artists, turning a potentially awkward topic into a celebration of their shared place in the modern romantic songbook.

Background: The Bill Nye Episode and the Initial Confession

The playful banter stems from an episode of Hey Jonas! released on June 4, 2026, which featured an unlikely guest: Bill Nye "The Science Guy" . During a segment on human behavior and attraction, Nye inquired about what types of music the brothers might use to get "in the mood," prompting an unusually candid response from Kevin Jonas . While Joe and Nick Jonas initially teased the 38-year-old about the question, Kevin admitted, "I’ve got a playlist," clarifying that it was curated specifically around the favorite songs of his wife of 16 years, Danielle Jonas .

When Joe Jonas playfully asked if his own funk-pop band DNCE was featured on the list, Kevin was quick to shut down the idea, stating, "It’s not gonna happen! It’s Michael Bublé, it’s that kind of stuff." This admission quickly went viral on social media platforms, with fans praising the couple's long-standing marriage and Kevin's willingness to prioritize his wife’s musical preferences in their intimate life.

Bublé’s Own 'Jonas Playlist' and the Humor of Conception

Michael Bublé, who has been married to Argentinian actress Luisana Lopilato since 2011, did not stop at simply calling the playlist "reciprocal" during his July 9 appearance. The singer, known for his self-deprecating humor, joked that when the story first broke in the news, his mind immediately began racing. "I had so many different fantasies," Bublé quipped, leaning heavily into his signature playful persona.

The comment sent Kevin, Joe, and Nick into fits of laughter, highlighting the relaxed, brotherly atmosphere the podcast has become known for since its launch. Bublé’s ability to lean into the joke reflects his long-standing awareness of his brand as a romantic icon. He has previously referred to the children born to couples who attend his concerts as "Bublé-bies," noting that his live performances often act as an "aphrodisiac" for audiences. In an interview with BBC’s Good Morning Ulster, Bublé noted the romantic atmosphere of his outdoor gigs, where couples often "sway" under the stars with a glass of wine, leading to a predictable baby boom nine months later.

Kevin Jonas and the 'Little Things' of Romance

While Michael Bublé’s music may dominate the Jonas household’s "sexy time playlist," Kevin Jonas has also been busy releasing his own romantic material . On May 15, 2026, Kevin released his second-ever solo track, "Little Things," which he dedicated entirely to Danielle . In a heartfelt social media post accompanying the release, Kevin explained that the song reflects the "small moments that hold the greatest significance" in their relationship .

The couple, who share two daughters—Alena, 12, and Valentina, 9—frequently share glimpses of their supportive partnership online . On Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, Kevin posted a tribute to Danielle, stating that seeing her as a mother is his "greatest joy" . Danielle has been equally vocal about her husband's devotion, thanking him on Valentine's Day for being "steady, patient, and always showing up" . This foundation of long-term commitment provides the context for Kevin’s candid discussion of their intimate life, framing it as a healthy component of a stable marriage .

Broader Cultural Implications and Media Impact

The ongoing "playlist" saga has sparked a broader conversation about celebrity vulnerability and the evolving nature of the Jonas Brothers' public image . Once famous for their purity rings during their early Disney Channel days, the brothers have transitioned into adulthood with a more open and relatable approach to their personal lives . By discussing bedroom playlists and the music that facilitates intimacy, the Jonas Brothers and guests like Michael Bublé contribute to a culture of openness regarding healthy sexual expression and the role of art in personal relationships .

Journalists and cultural commentators have noted that Bublé’s music consistently ranks high on such playlists due to its timeless, soothing quality, often bridging the gap between generations . His crossover appeal, which combines the jazz-influenced pop of the 1950s with contemporary production, makes him a unique figure in the music industry—an artist who is both "uncool" enough to be a family-friendly staple and "sultry" enough to soundtrack a couple’s private time .

The latest podcast episode concluded with Bublé and the Jonas Brothers hinting at a possible future collaboration, though no official details have been confirmed . As the Jonas Brothers continue their global tour and Bublé prepares for his next series of outdoor performances, the "playlist" exchange remains a standout moment of levity in the summer’s entertainment news cycle .

Garcia’s casting was confirmed by the network in June 2026, positioning her alongside returning veterans Shannon Storms Beador, Heather Dubrow, Tamra Judge, Gina Kirschenheiter, Emily Simpson, and Jennifer Pedranti . Notably, the season also features the return of original "OG of the OC" Vicki Gunvalson in a full-time capacity, setting the stage for immediate friction with the newcomer .

Addressing the Playboy Legacy

Long before her foray into Orange County’s social circles, Garcia rose to prominence as a Playboy model, earning the titles of Miss April 2003 and the 2004 Playmate of the Year . Her transition to the Real Housewives franchise has naturally reignited public interest in her time at the Playboy Mansion during the early 2000s, an era recently scrutinized in the docuseries Secrets of Playboy .

During the promotion of the new RHOC season, Garcia addressed long-standing questions regarding her relationship with the late Hugh Hefner. While several of her contemporaries from that era, including former "Heads of Playmate Promotions" like Miki Garcia, have alleged that sleeping with Hefner was an "unspoken rule" or a prerequisite for achieving the Playmate of the Year title, Carmella Garcia has historically described her relationship with the mogul as professional and friendly .

In previous interviews, Garcia stated that her experiences at the Mansion were "normal" for her, noting she was "very close with Hef’s girlfriends" and often attended Sunday dinners at the estate . Though the new season of RHOC is expected to delve deeper into her past, early reports and premiere interviews suggest Garcia maintains she did not engage in the same type of intimate relationship with Hefner that his live-in girlfriends, such as Holly Madison or the Shannon twins, have documented .

Friction with the OGs

The season 20 premiere wasted no time in highlighting the clash between Garcia and franchise veteran Vicki Gunvalson. In an exclusive clip released prior to the premiere, Gunvalson is seen reminding Garcia, "I started this franchise," to which Garcia retorted, "Everything has an expiration" .

Garcia admitted to being hesitant about joining the series, telling Us Weekly that she "wasn't sure fit the mold" and hoped viewers would "show a little grace" as her personal history is unpacked on screen . Her casting has also brought past legal issues back into the spotlight, including a 2004 bar fight involving an ex of her now-former husband, Jeff Garcia, which resulted in a conviction for violating a protection order .

Life Beyond the Mansion

At 43, Garcia is currently a real estate broker and developer, recently working with The Oppenheim Group—the brokerage made famous by the Netflix series Selling Sunset . She is a mother of four children—Presley, 18; Faith, 14; Jason, 17; and Jax, 15—from her previous marriage to retired NFL quarterback Jeff Garcia, whom she divorced in 2020 .

As The Real Housewives of Orange County continues its 20th season, Garcia’s narrative is expected to balance her current life as a busy real estate professional and mother with the "Bunny" persona that first launched her career . Fans can watch new episodes of RHOC on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo, with streaming available the next day on Peacock .

“It’s something that we all know a little bit about, some of us know a lot about it, some of us know nothing about it,” Nolan told The Associated Press. “We’re making the film for that whole range of people’s relationship with this foundational text of this incredible story.”

But, just in case, here’s a little primer on who is playing who in “The Odyssey.” The film hits theaters on July 17.

Matt Damon (Odysseus)

The King of Ithaca and the mastermind behind the Trojan Horse trick that ended the war, Odysseus’s long journey home to reclaim his kingdom and reunite with his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus, whom he left as a baby, is central to the poem.

“He’s a very complicated protagonist, which I love, and Chris reveals how and why in his way, and a lot becomes clear by the end of the movie, which explains a lot of how he’s behaving at the beginning,” Damon said. “I think for a story that’s this big, it’s wonderful to have a character that’s very human at the center. He’s certainly not perfect. And he’s living with the consequences of his actions. And that’s dictating his behavior.”

Anne Hathaway (Penelope)

The Queen of Ithaca, Penelope has been waiting for the return of her husband Odysseus for 20 years while over 100 men (the suitors) take up residency in the palace, eating their food and drinking their wine, hoping that she’ll marry one of them. She’s also been the subject of debate for thousands of years, an enigmatic character who every generation projects their own views on.

“She’s probably the most well- known character that I’ve ever played. But we only know her as far as we can see,” Hathaway said. “I didn’t want to negate anything that anyone had ever felt about Penelope, that she was, you know, the picture of modesty, she’s a paragon of patience, all of those things. But a paragon isn’t a person. And so I thought, OK, so let’s allow that that’s the way the world sees her. Who is she when no one’s looking?”

Tom Holland (Telemachus)

Odysseus’s only child, Telemachus, hasn’t seen his father since he was a baby. Now grown and with the threat of the suitors intensifying, he goes on his own journey to find more information about his missing father. The two quests provide parallel narratives in the film, which Nolan said is part “homecoming” and part “coming-of-age” story.

“There are times where it feels like you’re on this kind of action-adventure roller coaster, but he doesn’t sacrifice any of the heart and the intimacy between our characters,” Holland said.

Although Telemachus has yet to meet his father as a grown man, Holland added: “Throughout the film, there’s this real sense of connection between the two of us.”

Robert Pattinson (Antinous)

In the poem, there are 108 suitors vying for Penelope’s hand (and the Ithacan throne), including Antinous who in the film is the main antagonist on the homefront. Nolan said Pattinson unleashed “his inner Alan Rickman” to play the part.

“The thing he really focused on was this idea of his relationship to Telemachus. He’s continually saying to Telemachus, ‘I’m going to be your stepdad, I’ll be your daddy.’ It was such a fascinatingly creepy and amusing basis for villainy,” Nolan said. “I just love how Rob based it on real world things, real truths about his character and who he is, and the cowardly nature of that. I think cowardice is one of the hardest things for actors, particularly movie stars, to play.”

Zendaya (Athena)

The goddess of “craft, warfare and wisdom” and the daughter of Zeus, Athena appears to Odysseus from time to time throughout the story.

“I was like how do I bring to life what is a, you know, a goddess,” Zendaya laughed. “But I think so much of it was in the story and the way he’s telling it. I think the humanity of it and bringing that more human element to this idea of a goddess but what they kind of represent to Odysseus in this story. The lessons that they’re teaching him and why she presents the way she does and in the moments that she does, I think, ultimately, are teaching him a lesson and guiding him through something that’s very difficult.”

Lupita Nyong’o (Helen and Clytemnestra)

The Oscar-winner plays both Helen, the queen of Sparta and occupant of the “face that launched a thousand ships,” who is married to Menelaus, and her sister Clytemnestra, who is married to Agamemnon.

“He (Nolan) mentioned his interest in telling this story and really not shying away from the cost of war, actually investigating and exploring it, and so as such with Helen’s character, it’s like she’s known to be the reason for this war. Is that even really true?” Nyong’o said. “What is her life after the war? I love that we get a glimpse of that, and we really get to see the cost of everything. The rage, resentment, guilt, shame, disappointment, endurance of it all.

Charlize Theron (Calypso)

A nymph in Greek mythology, Odysseus spends a long period of his journey home with her on the island of Ogygia. Her motivations have been the source of much debate over the years.

John Leguizamo (Eumaeus)

An Ithacan swineherd who is loyal to Odysseus even after many have given up on his return.

“He (Nolan) told me it was the most loyal character in Western literature,” Leguizamo said. “I was like, oh, OK, that’s a lot of responsibility.”

In the film, Eumaeus is nearly blind, which, Leguizamo said, is a nod to Homer, who some historians believe was blind.

Jon Bernthal (Menelaus)

The King of Sparta and husband of Helen, who tells Telemachus what he remembers about Odysseus while they fought together in the Trojan War.

Benny Safdie (Agamemnon)

The King of Mycenae, husband of Clytemnestra, and commander of the Greek army during the Trojan War

Samantha Morton (Circe)

A powerful sorceress who encounters Odysseus and his men on their journey home.

Himesh Patel (Eurylochus)

Odysseus’s second-in-command who is there for many of the obstacles on their journey to Ithaca, from the cave of the Cyclops to Hades.

“On ‘Tenet, ’ I popped in and, you now, flew, or drove, a plane to a building and then left … Whereas on this, I was there by Matt’s side, you know almost the entire shoot,” Patel said. “It’s kind of the most physically challenging role I’ve ever played.”

Elliot Page (Sinon)

Sinon, a character in Greek mythology who appears in the “Aeneid,” is a veteran of the Trojan War.

Bill Irwin (Cyclops)

Poseidon’s son also encounters Odysseus and his men on their journey home. Nolan and production designer Ruth De Jong used Francisco Goya’s painting “Saturn Devouring His Son” as inspiration for the design, but it was the actor (also behind the “Interstellar ” robots) who helped give the character its soul.

“We didn’t know how we were gonna achieve it. We knew we were going to need every trick in the book, from animatronics to puppetry to computer graphics. But I knew I needed a performer to really look at it and help us find the design of it and find how this character would live and move and so forth,” Nolan said. “He doesn’t treat the Cyclops as just a monster. And that’s something I’ve very much picked up from the work of my friend Guillermo del Toro over the years. You know, Guillermo is someone who’s chief lesson, I think, in his work is a monster is never just a monster.”

Mia Goth (Melantho)

A servant of Queen Penelope.

Corey Hawkins (Polybus)

One of Penelope’s suitors.

Travis Scott

A bard in the court of Ithaca.

All Nolan films are epics in their own ways. But for “The Odyssey,” he knew he had to do something fitting of the Homeric poem and its foundational place in Western culture, something worthy of the biggest screens and the resources it would require. The goal was to make something accessible and realistic, which meant going to far flung locations, using real ships on real seas, and taking audiences into the cave with the Cyclops, inside the Trojan Horse and to the bleak expanse of Hades. Opening in theaters worldwide on July 17, it’s also the first feature to be shot entirely on IMAX film.

“We all know the title, we all know what it means, we know what it promises and hopefully for the audience coming to see the film, they’ll feel we made good on that promise because that’s the fun of ‘The Odyssey,’” Nolan said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. “It’s the ultimate adventure story.”

“This is going to be really hard”

The journey would require a deep dive into Greek mythology, Bronze Age scholarship and many translations, a monthslong scouting expedition and a 91-day shoot spanning six months and six countries during which the cast and crew endured all manner of challenging weather, landscapes and the treachery of the open seas.

“The Odyssey” was an epic undertaking — the hardest film anyone involved had ever made. Matt Damon, who stars as Odysseus, said that Nolan warned him as much before they started filming.

“He told me it was going to be hard, which I kind of, I blew off at first. I’m like, ‘Yeah, yeah, it’s going to hard. And he said ‘no, no, this is going to be really hard,'” Damon said. “He did not disappoint.”

That was by design.

“I mean, it’s ‘The Odyssey,’” Nolan said. “This should be a difficult film to make, and it was.”

Unlike Odysseus’s extended journey home, the production was also efficient: They finished nine days early.

Making ‘The Odyssey’ relatable, and rejecting Hollywood tropes

When Hollywood movies take on the ancient world, they often fall back on familiar tropes — using accents, elevated language, 19th century orchestral scores and neoclassical touchstones to convey antiquity. Nolan wanted to do something different and found inspiration in the text of the poem, in which he observed an earthy sensibility that stood in contrast to the grandeur of the story.

“You want to question people’s assumptions about how things should be portrayed in movies and what those are based on,” Nolan said. “There’s a challenge to that and a risk to that.”

That meant making some bold choices, including colloquial language, American accents, and blending elements from various stories, including “The Iliad,” “The Aeneid” and “Agamemnon,” to give the audience more clarity. His Trojan Horse, which he’s been thinking about since he was briefly attached to direct “Troy” over 20 years ago, does not have wheels.

For the score, he challenged composer Ludwig Göransson to use bronze gongs, aulos and the lyre to create a new kind of soundscape, and to come up with a four-note theme where the last would be the pluck of a bow.

And paramount to this story of homecoming and coming-of-age, his characters needed to be relatable.

“The movie has so much scale,” said Tom Holland, who plays Odysseus’s son Telemachus. “There are times where it feels like you’re on this kind of action-adventure roller coaster, but he doesn’t sacrifice any of the heart and the intimacy between our characters.”

Among the large ensemble cast are many famous names: Anne Hathaway is Odysseus’s wife Penelope, Zendaya is the goddess Athena, Charlize Theron is the nymph Calypso and Lupita Nyong’o is Helen, and her twin sister.

Robert Pattinson, Nolan said, is “unleashing his inner Alan Rickman” as the villainous suitor Antinous.

“He’s continually saying to Telemachus, ‘I’m going to be your stepdad, I’ll be your daddy,’” Nolan said. “It was such a fascinatingly creepy and amusing basis for villainy.”

Leading the charge was Damon, an actor Nolan knew he liked working with after “Interstellar” and “Oppenheimer. ”

“You need somebody who will take the audience on this journey,” Nolan said. “With Matt, he’s able to combine that iconic sort of superhero thing with a very, very emotionally accessible and comprehensible person.”

Finding the real; Grounding the fantastical

The film begins with the words “a time of apparent magic,” a promise of what’s to come in this mythical world of gods, monsters, superstitions and natural phenomena. The pursuit of the real led them all over the world. Troy was constructed in Morocco, the cave of the Cyclops was found in foothills of Greece, Iceland’s black sands, shot in the midnight sun, are used for Hades and the island of Favignana, near Sicily, played Ithaca, where much of the cast and crew hiked 45-minutes every day before work to reach a 15th-century castle, 1,030 feet (313.9 meters) above sea level.

On the seas, they used a real ship, the Draken, a reconstruction of a 1,000-year-old Viking ship that production modified slightly to make it look more of the Mycenaean era. The actors learned to row. The ship’s crew played extras.

But Nolan’s love of in-camera effects doesn’t mean he rejects other kinds. “Tenet,” “Interstellar” and “Inception” all won Oscars for visual effects, after all. And in “The Odyssey” there are things that can’t be found in the natural world, from the six-headed Scylla to the Cyclops, the design of which was inspired by the Francisco Goya painting “Saturn Devouring His Son.” Bill Irwin, who brought the robots to life in “Interstellar,” delivered the performance.

“We knew we were going to need every trick in the book, from animatronics to puppetry to computer graphics,” Nolan said. “But I knew I needed a performer … He doesn’t treat the Cyclops as just a monster.”

What it adds up to is something that, miraculously for a 3,000-year-old tale, feels fresh.

“Chris has created something that’s totally new,” said Hathaway. “That’s a remarkable achievement.”

Odyssey-fever

Nolan productions always inspire a certain amount of hysteria, but excitement for “The Odyssey” reached a fever pitch. Initial screenings for the 70 mm IMAX showings — his favorite format — sold out in under an hour a year in advance. When all showtimes went on sale last month, ticketing sites crashed. High profile locations like the AMC Lincoln Square in New York and AMC CityWalk in Los Angeles are virtually sold out for weeks, and scalpers on eBay are attempting to sell tickets for more than $500. But the 70 mm IMAX screens account for only about 32 theaters out of thousands in North America — there are other ways to see the film, including 70 mm, digital IMAX and other large format presentations.

For Nolan, the audience is the north star; Entertaining is a responsibility he takes seriously. In fact, he said, a film isn’t really done until it reaches the audience: They’re the ones who finish the piece.

“The audience tells you what it is,” Nolan said. “And that means that for us, this is an exciting moment, but a very frightening moment, because it’s real. There’s nothing to hide behind. We made this film for a theatrical audience, and it goes out in the world as that. And we’ll see what the world makes of it.”