Comments have been restricted on The Odyssey movie’s official social media posts. This move follows intense backlash related to the film’s casting decisions. Directed by Christopher Nolan and following his award-winning film Oppenheimer, The Odyssey is an epic action fantasy film. It draws inspiration from Homer’s epic poem and features stars like Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Zendaya.

The criticism has been labeled as racist, misogynistic, and transphobic. The casting of Black and trans actors, particularly Lupita Nyong’o and Elliot Page, has drawn ire from right-wing voices online, including notable figures like Elon Musk. Newsweek has reached out to Universal, the film’s distributor, for comment via email.

Why The Backlash Matters

The film highlights the cultural conflicts within U.S. cinema, mirroring broader societal divides. Backlash over casting choices in adaptations and remakes has become common. Recent instances include controversies over casting decisions in Harry Potter, The Little Mermaid, and Snow White remakes.

Recent films like Supergirl and Citizen Vigilante represent different facets of these polarizations. Supergirl, a film with a female lead, faces critique from conservative voices. On the other hand, Citizen Vigilante is praised by some but criticized for extreme violence and perceived anti-immigration views.

Controversy Over The Odyssey Explained

Homer’s The Odyssey epic is divided into 24 parts, telling the story of Odysseus, a Greek hero and king. During his journey back home after the Trojan War, he encounters mythical creatures like the Cyclops and Sirens. The film, reportedly with a $250 million budget, is Nolan’s most expensive to date.

The film’s online controversy emerged before its July 4 press circuit. Initially, critiques targeted aspects like production design and historical accuracy. As trailers launched, casting choices became the core of heated discussion.

Lupita Nyong’o’s Role as Helen of Troy

Nyong’o’s portrayal of Helen of Troy has sparked debate. As a mythological figure, no definitive evidence exists about Helen’s appearance. Critics questioned her casting, with public figures like Matt Walsh doubting Nyong’o’s fit for the role. Elon Musk echoed similar sentiments, criticizing Nolan’s casting choices as diversity-driven.

Nyong’o dismissed criticism in an Elle interview, emphasizing the mythological basis of The Odyssey. She highlighted the film’s diverse cast as a significant strength, aligning with the story’s grand and global nature.

Travis Scott’s Involvement

Travis Scott’s casting also attracted criticism. As primarily a musician, some argue his celebrity status might detract from the film. His controversial past, particularly the Astroworld Festival tragedy, further fuels discomfort among viewers.

Nolan defended Scott’s role by drawing parallels between oral traditions of storytelling and rap. He explained the casting decision as a nod to oral poetry traditions.

Elliot Page and Misconceptions About Achilles

Speculation about Elliot Page playing Achilles led to controversy. Critics cited historical inaccuracies and Page’s identity as a transgender man to challenge the role’s casting.

However, Page was cast as Sinon, from Virgil’s Aeneid, not as Achilles. Schne’s role involves deceiving the Trojans concerning the Trojan Horse, essential to the plot. Page’s casting choice emphasizes pivotal storytelling elements.

Reception and Next Steps

Critics have praised The Odyssey as a major cinematic achievement. Publications such as Variety and The Independent lauded the film, citing its grand scale and distinguishing it as Nolan’s largest project to date.

The film will debut in U.S. theaters on July 17. As discourse continues, The Odyssey remains a focal point in Hollywood’s ongoing cultural debates.