The Odyssey’s Tom Holland has admitted he has promoted his own movies while privately thinking they were “s—.” The actor confessed it while discussing the difference between promoting projects he loves and ones he doesn’t. He is currently navigating a busy summer press circuit, starring in Christopher Nolan’s Homer’s epic and Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
Tom Holland says he thought some of his movies were ‘s—’
On the Dish Podcast, Holland explained that the promotional grind transforms completely when genuine pride backs the project. He described his current media tour as a reason to celebrate because he truly believes in the films he represents. “I’m absolutely loving it. When you’re doing press for movies you’re really proud of, it’s really easy,” Holland said. “Because when they ask you questions about why should people go and watch this movie, you’re not lying to anyone. You really feel like people should go see it.”
The Spider-Man star then contrasted this experience with past promotional cycles that required a more performative sales pitch. He recalled fielding the standard question about why audiences should buy a ticket, while a far less flattering assessment ran through his mind.
“I’ve had experiences before when people say, ‘Why should you see this movie?’ And in the back of your mind, you’re like, ‘You shouldn’t, because it’s s–t,’” Holland admitted. He did not specify which of his past projects prompted the private criticism. His filmography includes critical misfires like Chaos Walking and Uncharted, though both have defenders. Additionally, the actor also credited Anne Hathaway with sharpening his press skills.
Now, Tom Holland called this period a “victory lap,” reflecting pride in both projects. Nolan’s The Odyssey released in cinemas on July 17 and has become one of the highest-grossing R-rated films in its second weekend. Spider-Man: Brand New Day prepares for a July 31 domestic release after international debuts on July 29-30.
