Tom Holland reveals movie that gave him newfound confidence as an actor

Hollywood actor Tom Holland has credited Christopher Nolan's upcoming Greek epic 'The Odyssey' with giving him a renewed sense of confidence and encouraging him to explore new possibilities in his acting career.

Holland, who portrays Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, in the film, spoke about his experience at a screening in London on Thursday. Reflecting on what he gained from working on the project, the actor said the experience had strengthened his self-belief and inspired him to take on new challenges.

"I’d probably say it’s confidence and an ambition to see what else is out there for me." 

Tom Holland on working with Christopher Nolan

Holland also spoke about his long-standing admiration for Nolan, describing the opportunity to collaborate with the filmmaker as a significant moment in his career. The actor said receiving Nolan's approval and watching the film at the director's home made the experience particularly special.

"I’ve been an admirer of Chris since I can remember, and to have the opportunity to work with him and to have his approval, and to sit in his house and watch his movie and to get a pat on the back, for me, just was like the perfect way for me to start whatever it is that I’m doing next. He’s given me a level of confidence as an actor that I don’t know if I had before, and I’m very grateful that that is something that I can take away from this."

The actor added that the encouragement he received from Nolan had helped him recognise his potential and approach his future projects with greater assurance.

Holland praises co-stars and the team behind 'The Odyssey'

The experience also offered Holland an opportunity to learn from the people he worked alongside. He acknowledged the contributions of his fellow cast members, including his wife Zendaya, as well as other members of the crew.

Speaking about how he plans to carry these lessons into his next assignment, Holland said he would approach it with a stronger sense of accomplishment and belief in his abilities. He also praised Nolan and producer Emma Thomas for creating an environment where actors feel supported and encouraged.

"This is what Chris and Emma do well, is they really champion their actors."

Tom Holland's upcoming projects

Meanwhile, Holland is preparing for his next major project, a biopic on legendary dancer and actor Fred Astaire. The film will allow him to revisit his dancing background, which played an important role in his early journey into entertainment.

Before becoming an internationally recognised Hollywood star, Holland began his career on the stage, appearing in the West End production of 'Billy Elliot'. His experience in the musical helped establish his foundation as a performer, making the upcoming biopic an opportunity to reconnect with those roots.