Zendaya's On-Set Anxiety: How Tom Holland Supported Her During Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey'

Christopher Nolan's latest cinematic endeavor, an epic adaptation of Homer's 'The Odyssey,' has left its stars, Zendaya and John Leguizamo, marveling at the director's unique capabilities. This monumental feature, deemed Nolan's most massive to date, brings together a stellar cast, some reuniting with Nolan, while others like Zendaya and Leguizamo experience a remarkable first-time collaboration on an ambitious, on-location production.

The narrative of 'The Odyssey' follows Matt Damon as King Odysseus of Ithaca on a heroic quest to return his crew from the Trojan War and reunite with his wife, Queen Penelope (Anne Hathaway), and son Telemachus (Tom Holland). Their arduous journey across the sea is fraught with obstacles and introduces an array of iconic characters. Leguizamo portrays Eumaeus, a faithful servant to Odysseus, while Zendaya embodies Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. The cast further includes Charlize Theron as the nymph Calypso, Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy, and Jon Bernthal as Menelaus.

Zendaya and Leguizamo extensively discussed the experience of filming in spectacular, real-world locations and the emphasis on practical effects over digital. Leguizamo described a profound immersion, feeling physically present in diverse settings from Hades to deserts and mountains. Zendaya highlighted Nolan's exceptional ability to foster a determined work ethic and attract masters of their craft. She expressed awe at witnessing the creation of practical elements, stating that the magic of the film remained undiminished even after seeing its intricate real-life construction.

Both actors concurred that very few, if any, directors possess the vision and skill to successfully adapt such a profound and epic piece of literature as 'The Odyssey.' They firmly believe that Nolan stands almost alone in his capacity to bring this challenging story to cinematic life, underscoring the singular nature of his directorial approach.

The set was filled with moments of disbelief for the actors, referred to as “I can't believe this is my job” instances, primarily due to the exceptional cast and breathtaking locations. Leguizamo vividly recalled filming 900 feet above sea level on a cliff, featuring a real castle and offering a 360-degree vista of the Mediterranean. Zendaya, initially nervous on her first day, found comfort in Tom Holland's presence and was deeply impressed by the tactile and meticulously detailed world Nolan had created, which required no imagination from the performers.

A significant aspect of the production was the exclusive use of IMAX cameras, a format both actors and the director insist is the only way to experience the film. Zendaya and Leguizamo delved into the unique challenges of working with these colossal cameras, especially when filming dialogue with a blimp system. Leguizamo admitted to initial apprehension about his magnified image on screen and the need to adjust his acting style. He also noted the distinctive noise of the IMAX cameras, which, without the blimp, sounded like a lawnmower, and the strict three-minute reel limit, necessitating five-minute reloading breaks that interrupted long scenes and required a specific rhythm of adjustment.

The preciousness of the IMAX film was another factor that created pressure on set. Zendaya contrasted it with digital filming, where continuous takes are common, emphasizing the actors’ desire not to waste any valuable film. She recalled being mortified after flubbing a line, highlighting the immense responsibility felt by the cast. Despite the intense demands, Nolan maintained a calm and reassuring demeanor, easing the anxieties of his actors as they collaborated to bring this grand epic to the screen. 'The Odyssey' is scheduled to open in theaters and IMAX on July 17.