Matt Damon has shared that the cast of Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation of Homer’s *The Odyssey* endured significant physical challenges during filming, particularly back pain. Damon, who plays the central character Odysseus, discussed the difficulties on the Radio Andy show with host Andy Cohen.

The 55-year-old actor described the demanding nature of the production, noting the toll it took on the predominantly middle-aged cast. He detailed how running through the stone-covered sets representing Troy caused considerable discomfort. Wearing realistic sandals added to the strain, resulting in scuffed feet and cuts, but Damon emphasized that the most persistent issue was back pain.

“It was a heavy Advil movie,” Damon remarked, referring to the reliance on pain relief during the intense action sequences.

*The Odyssey* has attracted critical praise, with some reviewers considering it Christopher Nolan’s finest film to date. The project also achieved a milestone at the box office, recording Nolan’s largest opening weekend, generating $264 million worldwide, according to Universal Pictures.