Controversies Surrounding ‘The Odyssey’ Film Reveal Cultural Divide
Comments have been restricted on posts from the official account for the movie The Odyssey. This decision follows intense backlash over the film’s casting choices. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film is highly anticipated and follows his previous Oscar-winning movie, Oppenheimer. The film adapts the epic poem by Homer and features stars like Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya.
The backlash has drawn criticism for being racist, misogynistic, and transphobic. Right-wing online voices, including Elon Musk, have specifically targeted the casting of Black and trans actors such as Lupita Nyong’o and Elliot Page. The film distributes via Universal, who declined to comment when contacted by Newsweek.
Why The Controversy Matters
The film highlights the cultural wars within U.S. cinema, mirroring broader societal divides in America. The Odyssey is not unique in facing online fury. Similar backlash occurred with casting decisions in recent adaptations of Harry Potter, The Little Mermaid, and Snow White.
Other divisive films, like Supergirl and Citizen Vigilante, demonstrate the polarizing nature of modern filmmaking. Supergirl, featuring a female lead, has been criticized by right-wing voices, while Citizen Vigilante‘s portrayal of extreme violence and perceived anti-immigration stance has drawn praise.
Understanding the Backlash Against The Odyssey
The epic poem follows Odysseus on his journey home after the Trojan War. Universal’s film adaptation was shot globally with a $250 million budget, making it Nolan’s costliest project. The premiere in London on July 6 initiated the film’s press activities.
Before this, comments were restricted on July 4 due to ongoing controversies about costumes and perceived historical inaccuracies. The first trailer’s release intensified debates, focusing on the cast.
Lupita Nyong’o Controversy
Oscar-winning actress Nyong’o plays Helen of Troy, a mythical figure famed for her beauty. Some argue against her casting, citing mythical inaccuracies. Critics like Matt Walsh of the Daily Wire dismissed the casting, alleging Nolan avoided picking a white actress to eschew racism allegations, supported by Musk’s remarks.
Nyong’o responded in Elle, dismissing the criticism and highlighting the story’s mythological context. She emphasized the cast diversity as a strength, speaking to its global narrative scale.
Travis Scott Casting Critique
Criticism also targets Travis Scott’s involvement. As primarily seen as a musician rather than a seasoned actor, some fear his inclusion could distract from the movie’s ensemble cast. The Astroworld Festival tragedy, where ten died, adds to the discomfort surrounding his role.
Nolan defended casting Scott as a bard in an interview with Time, suggesting it nods to the story’s oral traditions akin to rap.
Elliot Page’s Role Discussion
Initial backlash speculated Page might play Achilles, a misinterpretation of roles. While some focused on historical inaccuracy and Page’s appearance, others targeted Page’s transgender identity, labeling the choice as ‘woke’.
Page portrays Sinon, a character from Virgil’s Aeneid, not Homer’s The Odyssey. Sinon deceives the Trojans, pivotal for Odysseus’ story in the film.
Early Reviews and Expectations
Social media conversations present only part of the reaction. Early critic reviews hail The Odyssey as a masterpiece. Variety‘s Jazz Tangcay, The Independent, and Digital Spy all praise the film for its scope and execution, despite adaptation liberties.
The film will release on July 17 in the United States. This release will likely continue to stir discussions on cultural representation.