Christopher Nolan's latest feature film, "The Odyssey," is garnering overwhelmingly positive first reactions from film critics following its London premiere.

The epic fantasy, Nolan's 13th directorial effort, has been hailed as "jaw-dropping," "staggering," and "the must-see cinematic event of the summer" by members of the press who attended early screenings.

The film, an adaptation of Homer's classic epic poem, features Matt Damon in the lead role as Odysseus, the Greek hero on his arduous journey home from the Trojan War.

He is joined by an extensive ensemble cast that includes Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Samantha Morton, and Charlize Theron.

"The Odyssey" premiered in London on Monday, ahead of its global theatrical release on July 17.

Film journalists quickly took to social media to share their initial impressions, with many suggesting that Nolan has once again outdone himself.

Variety's Jazz Tangcay lauded the film as an "astonishing achievement," particularly highlighting its "breathtaking" battle sequences.

Tangcay also praised the cast, noting that the performances, including those from Oscar winners Damon, Hathaway, and Nyong’o, are not only "genuinely grand" but, for some, represent the "best" of their careers.

Erik Davis of Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes echoed these sentiments, commending Damon's "excellent" portrayal and Hathaway's "incredible" performance as Penelope, Odysseus's wife.

Davis singled out Robert Pattinson, stating he "absolutely stole the show" with his "conniving, manipulative and endlessly entertaining" depiction of a villainous character.

He concluded that "The Odyssey" is "the must-see cinematic event of the summer — and quite possibly the year."

Collider’s Steven Weintraub expressed being "blown away" by the film, particularly by Nolan's embrace of the supernatural elements.

Weintraub also noted that "The Odyssey" is the first film to be shot entirely in IMAX, recommending the premium format for a "jaw-dropping experience." The Hollywood Reporter’s film editor Aaron Couch pointed out a unique element for Nolan, mentioning a "fleshed out horror sequence."

DigitalSpy movie editor Ian Sandwell described "The Odyssey" as "staggering," supported by a "soul-rattling score" and "spectacular set pieces," with its final act being "as good as anything Nolan’s done." IndieWire’s David Ehrlich similarly posted that "the last act rewards the journey." Time Out’s Phil de Semlyen was so impressed he watched the film twice, appreciating its multifaceted themes, from a "chilling vision of brutalized men" to an "old-school sweeping adventure tale," even finding humor and emotional depth in the Cyclops.