Christopher Nolan Revives Sword-and-Sandal Genre With 20-Film Ranking Led by 'Ben-Hur'
Updated
Updated · Variety · Jul 19
Christopher Nolan Revives Sword-and-Sandal Genre With 20-Film Ranking Led by 'Ben-Hur'
3 articles · Updated · Variety · Jul 19
Summary
Christopher Nolan’s 2026 film “The Odyssey” is framed as the catalyst for a fresh ranking of the 20 best sword-and-sandal movies, with the new release praised as a major revival for the long-dormant genre.
Shot entirely in Imax 70mm, the film follows Matt Damon’s Odysseus on a 10-year journey back to Ithaca after the Trojan War, while Anne Hathaway’s Penelope and Tom Holland’s Telemachus fend off suitors at home.
The article says Nolan’s adaptation departs from Homer in places but highlights its practical effects, scale and performances, arguing it is likely to draw significant Oscar attention.
In the ranking, “The Odyssey” places behind classics including “The Ten Commandments” and no. 1 pick “Ben-Hur,” which the list cites for its 11 Oscars, 10,000 extras and landmark chariot race.