The Odyssey Faces Controversy Over Casting Choices

Comments were restricted on posts from The Odyssey’s official account after backlash about the film’s casting choices. The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan, is an anticipated movie following his Oscar-winning Oppenheimer. It is based on Homer’s epic poem, featuring stars like Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya.

Reaction to Casting Choices

The backlash, including racist and transphobic comments, targeted the casting of Black and trans actors, particularly Lupita Nyong’o and Elliot Page. Critics, including Elon Musk, voiced opposition online. Newsweek reached out to Universal, the film’s distributor, for a comment.

The situation highlights a cultural divide in U.S. cinema, mirroring broader societal fractures. Online reactions to casting in movies are common, with similar controversies in Harry Potter and The Little Mermaid remakes.

Backlash Over The Odyssey’s Casting

The Odyssey details Odysseus’s journey home after the Trojan War, encountering various mythical creatures. Universal stated the film was shot worldwide, using a $250 million budget, Nolan’s most costly project yet.

Controversy surrounded early trailers and casting choices. Criticisms targeted costumes and historical accuracies too. Restrictions on comments began before the film’s promotional tour. London hosted the premiere on July 6, with restricted comments dating back to July 4.

Lupita Nyong’o and Helen of Troy

Nyong’o plays Helen of Troy, a mythological figure dubbed the world’s most beautiful woman. Critics online, including Daily Wire’s Matt Walsh, argued against Nyong’o’s casting, suggesting it wasn’t politically motivated. Musk echoed these sentiments on social media.

Nyong’o, dismissing the backlash, pointed out that the tale is mythological. In an interview, she highlighted the diversity of the cast as a strength, noting the story’s grand scale.

Travis Scott and Elliot Page’s Roles

Criticism extended to Travis Scott and Elliot Page. Concerns arose about Scott’s acting credentials alongside seasoned actors. His involvement in the 2021 Astroworld tragedy also fueled the backlash.

Nolan defended Scott’s casting, noting parallels between the bard character and rap as oral poetry. Page’s rumored role as Achilles also came under fire. Critics questioned his suitability for mythological depictions, partly due to his transgender identity.

Ultimately, Page plays Sinon, from Virgil’s Aeneid, not Achilles. Sinon’s story involves deceiving the Trojans, a key plot point in the film. Page’s role adds vital strategy to the narrative.

Initial Reviews and Release

Despite social media negativity, initial reviews praised The Odyssey as a ‘masterpiece.’ Variety described it as a ‘triumphant, spectacular epic,’ while The Independent dubbed it Nolan’s ‘biggest film to date.’ Digital Spy called it ‘staggering,’ though purists may criticize adaptation changes.

The Odyssey is set for U.S. release on July 17.