Director Christopher Nolan has detailed his vision for an upcoming adaptation of Homer's "The Odyssey," emphasizing a desire to present the ancient epic in a way that feels "very fresh for modern audiences." Nolan stated his intention is to "do away with" what he perceives as "cultural prejudices" that often color modern interpretations of the ancient world, suggesting these assumptions are frequently rooted in the passage of time rather than logic.
Nolan explained that a common perception is that historical epics must adopt a formal tone. For "The Odyssey," he deliberately pursued a different path. This approach has already sparked discussion, particularly concerning a line of dialogue where Tom Holland, playing Telemachus, refers to Odysseus as "my dad." Critics have questioned the historical accuracy of such contemporary phrasing in an ancient setting. However, Nolan counters that "The Odyssey" itself is a "mythic action epic" filled with fantastical elements like a one-eyed Cyclops and alluring Sirens, suggesting that strict historical accuracy may not be the primary objective.
Tom Holland defended the dialogue choice in an interview, noting that "I wouldn't have even said 'Father' back in the day. I would have been Greek, so it's no less correct." Nolan expanded on this, explaining that people tend to "elevate" the ancient world "because it's old." His aim, he clarified, was to dismantle these unfounded assumptions and create a "consistent and accessible world" that feels "vital and credible and exciting to be in."
Nolan further elaborated that aesthetic choices in past depictions of the ancient world often draw from later periods, like the Romantic era, rather than accurately reflecting the Mycenaean period or Homer's time. His team researched archaeological findings and the earliest portrayals of the era to build a visually coherent world. He also sought language with "emotional not intellectual meaning," opting for contemporary dialogue over artificially elevated speech, though he acknowledged this approach might be risky.
Casting choices, including Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy, Jon Bernthal as King Menelaus, and Zendaya as Athena, also reflect Nolan's strategy. He aimed to cast well-known actors to help a modern audience connect more readily with these mythological figures.
This is not the first time Nolan has addressed criticisms regarding historical accuracy in his films. In response to comments about Agamemnon's armor appearing too modern, Nolan pointed to the limited archaeological evidence from the Late Bronze Age setting. He noted that blackened bronze, used in the armor’s construction, was feasible at the time and that the costume design aimed to signify Agamemnon's elevated status through expensive materials. He also mentioned that initial depictions of Homeric characters were likely made in the manner of people living during Homer's era, centuries after the Bronze Age collapse.
Nolan drew parallels between "The Odyssey" and his 2014 film "Interstellar," which also faced scrutiny for its scientific accuracy. He views both projects as speculative endeavors, using the best available knowledge to construct compelling worlds, whether in the distant past or future. "The Odyssey" is slated for release on July 17, 2026.