An 11-metre-high Trojan Horse has been installed in London's Trafalgar Square to mark the world premiere of Christopher Nolan's upcoming film, The Odyssey. The massive structure, weighing approximately four tonnes, sits beneath Nelson's Column on a sand base among the square's famous bronze lions and fountains, transforming one of the capital's most iconic locations into a striking cinematic spectacle.
Construction and Transport
The sculpture took six weeks to construct, involving 45 designers, steelworkers, fabricators, and engineers. Organisers revealed it required approximately 300 man-hours to complete before being transported to central London and assembled under cover of darkness. Manufactured in Cardiff, the horse travelled more than 450 miles to reach the capital.
Built from steel, fibreglass, polystyrene, sand, and resin, the horse mirrors the weathered wooden horse featured in Nolan's mythic action epic, which draws inspiration from Homer's ancient story. According to the tale, Greek warriors concealed themselves inside a giant wooden horse to infiltrate the city of Troy, a cunning ploy that led to the city's downfall.
Exhibition and Public Viewing
Alongside the installation, visitors can explore an exhibition featuring film imagery and behind-the-scenes photographs, as well as a passageway lined with flaming torches inspired by the production. The installation will then move to Westfield London in White City, where it will be displayed with the photography exhibition from Thursday 16 July through to Monday 20 July. Admission is free for the public.
Film Release and Cast
Released by Universal Pictures, The Odyssey is due to arrive in UK cinemas on Friday 17 July. The picture was filmed across numerous global locations using cutting-edge IMAX film technology and is touted as the first feature film produced entirely with IMAX film cameras. It charts the journey of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, on his epic voyage home following the Trojan War, facing mythical beasts, mighty deities, and numerous challenges as he strives to reunite with his wife Penelope and reclaim his kingdom.
The star-studded cast includes Matt Damon as Odysseus, alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Samantha Morton, John Leguizamo, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron.
