Reported by 4 sources

The short version

  • The film is described as an action-packed thriller with frequent fight scenes, drawing comparisons to James Bond.
  • Critics on the right argue the movie promotes a rules-based world order that challenges their political ideology.
  • Academic responses are mixed, with some classicists defending Homer translations but critiquing reviews of the film.

Christopher Nolan’s new adaptation of Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey has generated significant discussion since its release, drawing both praise for its cinematic style and criticism for its perceived political undertones. The film is characterized as an action-packed thriller featuring frequent combat sequences, with some viewers noting similarities to the James Bond franchise. Reviews have been largely positive, particularly among male critics, though the project has not escaped scrutiny regarding its interpretation of classical literature.

A segment of online right-wing commentators has expressed strong disapproval, arguing that the film’s emphasis on a rules-based world order poses a greater threat to their worldview than any casting choices. Peter Swallow, a Labour MP and classics academic, suggests that these critics often look to the ancient world to justify modern political grievances, a phenomenon previously documented by classicist Donna Zuckerberg. Despite the backlash, the film has been widely reviewed as a successful blockbuster retelling of one of literature’s greatest works.

News Journal

The reception among academics remains divided. While some scholars have defended recent translations of Homer’s work, others have expressed reservations about how the film is being critiqued within academic circles. The debate highlights ongoing tensions between traditional interpretations of classical texts and modern cinematic adaptations, with Nolan’s impressionistic approach finding the man behind the myth while provoking ideological disputes.

Sources behind this briefing

Go to the original reporting

  • The Guardian US↗The right hates The Odyssey because of its ‘wokeness’ – but it missed an even bigger threat to its worldview | Peter Swallow
  • Ars Technica↗Review: Yes, we're still arguing about Nolan's The Odyssey
  • The Guardian↗‘It reminded me of James Bond’: Guardian readers on The Odyssey
  • Slate↗As a Classicist, I’ve Defended Emily Wilson’s Odyssey Translation. I Can’t Defend Her Review of Nolan’s Movie.