Comments have been restricted on posts from the official account for The Odyssey movie, following backlash over the film’s casting choices. The film, directed by Christopher Nolan, is eagerly awaited as it succeeds his Oscar-winning Oppenheimer. An adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey stars talented actors Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya.
The backlash primarily targets the casting of Black and trans actors, including Lupita Nyong’o and Elliot Page, criticized by right-wing voices online, such as Elon Musk. Newsweek reached out to Universal’s press representative for comments on this matter.
Why It Matters
The controversy around the film underscores the cultural struggles prevalent in U.S. cinema, reflective of deeper societal divisions. Recent adaptations, such as Harry Potter, The Little Mermaid, and Snow White, faced similar objections regarding casting choices. Other films, like Supergirl and Citizen Vigilante, also highlight polarization in modern cinema.
Backlash Over The Odyssey Explained
Homer’s The Odyssey consists of 24 books, chronicling Odysseus’s journey home following the Trojan War. Universal’s production of The Odyssey reportedly had a $250 million budget, marking Nolan’s most expensive project.
Comments were restricted before the film’s press circuit, visible on posts as of July 4. Controversies have revolved around costumes, production design, and historical accuracy, but escalated with the release of trailers, spotlighting casting choices.
Lupita Nyong’o’s Role Controversy
Lupita Nyong’o plays Helen of Troy, a mythological figure renowned for her beauty. Despite some defending the mythological nature of the character, Nyongo’s casting drew criticism, particularly from Matt Walsh, who doubted her portrayal as the ‘most beautiful woman.’
Nyong’o refutes critiques, emphasizing the film’s mythological aspect and the significance of the diverse cast. In an interview with Elle, she described The Odyssey‘s narrative as epic, encompassing varied worlds.
Travis Scott’s Casting Controversy
Travis Scott’s casting has faced skepticism, with critics arguing his musical background overshadows existing actors. His involvement in the 2021 Astroworld tragedy adds to the contentious reactions.
Nolan defended Scott’s role as a bard, drawing parallels between oral poetry and rap during an interview with Time.
Elliot Page’s Casting and Controversy
Initial speculation suggested Page portrayed Achilles, leading to debates about historical and mythological accuracy. Criticism focused on Page’s identity as a transgender man. Ultimately, Page plays Sinon, a character originating from Virgil’s Aeneid, not The Odyssey.
Sinon’s role is pivotal, deceiving the Trojans with a false tale, allowing the Greeks to invade Trojan territory.
Reception and Reviews
Though online debates persist, critics praised The Odyssey as a “masterpiece” before its release. Variety’s Jazz Tangcay, The Independent, and Digital Spy recognized the film’s grandeur, despite adaptation changes.
The Odyssey is scheduled for a U.S. release on July 17.