From ancient to modern times, Greeks have been ready to pick a fight over the ownership of Helen of Troy or Sparta, celebrated as the most beautiful woman in the world.
The release of the new film “The Odyssey,” directed by Christopher Nolan, has already sparked a run in theaters internationally, but also stirred controversy in Homer’s land.
In a country where children encounter Homer’s epic from the seventh grade at school, discussion about its adaptation is frequent and lively. How close does Nolan follow Homer’s story? Why are there no Greek actors included in the cast? And why is the face that launched a thousand ships, Helen, played by a black actress?
The Hollywood sensation, starring Matt Damon as King Odysseus, follows the epic’s outline, describing his perilous 10-year journey home from the Trojan War, attempting to reunite with his wife, Penelope, during which he battles gods and monsters only to find his palace overrun by rivals.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member