The Odyssey: is Nolan adaptation worth the hype? - The Latest

In this episode of The Guardian's Today in Focus, hosts Annie Kelly and Catherine Shord delve into the highly anticipated release of Christopher Nolan's film adaptation of 'The Odyssey'. They discuss the film's build-up, highlighting Nolan's successful history with films like 'Oppenheimer', and the significant marketing push that has made it the go-to cinematic experience this year. The hosts emphasize the film's grand production values, shot in IMAX without CGI, and filmed across six countries, reinforcing the epic scale reminiscent of the ancient Greek poem.

Critics have praised the film for its 'muscular storytelling' and its ability to engage with contemporary themes such as PTSD and the moral complexities of heroism. However, the discussion turns critical when considering the portrayal of female characters, noting that Nolan's films often present women in a limited scope, sidelining key female figures from the original text.

Despite mixed feelings about the film's pacing and portrayal of violence, it has been well-received in critical reviews, with expectations for strong box office returns. The episode concludes on a positive note, indicating a resurgence of interest in the source material, with sales of 'The Odyssey' texts reportedly up by 70%.