Matt Damon has shocked fans with his unrecognizable transformation for Christopher Nolan's upcoming epic, 'The Odyssey.' Paparazzi photos from the Favignana Island, Italy set reveal a dramatically different Damon: sporting a long, grey beard, and a remarkably sculpted physique, showcasing his ripped abs and defined muscles. The 54-year-old actor, playing the iconic role of Odysseus, appears almost unrecognizable in the images. The photos, obtained exclusively by Page Six, capture Damon both shirtless and in character, showing the dedication he has put into his physical transformation for the role. The images also show him with markings on his back, hinting at extensive costume and make-up work to fit the character of the legendary Greek hero. Director Christopher Nolan was also spotted on set alongside Damon, offering guidance and overseeing the production. Between takes, Damon donned a black puffer jacket to shield himself from the cool Italian weather, providing a stark contrast to his intense on-screen appearance. A representative for Damon has not yet commented on the leaked images. 'The Odyssey' is an action-packed adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, boasting an all-star cast. Joining Damon is Zendaya, playing Athena, whose glamorous toga-like dress provided a stunning contrast to Damon’s rugged appearance. Further adding to the film’s star power are Tom Holland (Zendaya's fiancé), Robert Pattinson, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o. The film promises to be a visually stunning cinematic experience, utilizing innovative IMAX film technology. Ben Affleck, a close friend and frequent collaborator with Damon, recently expressed his excitement about the project, noting that Damon's role requires extensive stunt work akin to his 'Bourne Identity' performances. Affleck even plans to visit Damon on set to witness Nolan's directing prowess. The production has been extensive, with filming taking place across several locations worldwide, including Italy, Greece, Morocco and the UK. The scale of the project is also remarkable, with a reported $250 million budget. This ambitious undertaking from Nolan, backed by Universal Pictures, and his producing partner Emma Thomas, makes 'The Odyssey' one of Nolan's most expensive films to date. The film is scheduled for release on July 17, 2026. The extensive production, star-studded cast, and the commitment shown by Matt Damon in transforming himself for the role are all contributing factors to building significant anticipation for 'The Odyssey.' With Nolan’s reputation for delivering exceptional cinematic experiences, this adaptation is poised to be a major event at the box office.