Christopher Nolan's upcoming adaptation of Homer's Odyssey has ignited a culture war, with Elon Musk leading the charge against casting decisions.
The Kenyan-Mexican actress Lupita Nyong'o playing Helen of Troy prompted Musk to accuse Nolan of "pissing on Homer's grave."
The backlash from the so-called Magasphere is predictable, but the film itself is generating excitement among classicists and moviegoers alike.
With a $250 million budget following Oppenheimer's success, Nolan has crafted an epic that prioritizes practical effects over CGI.
The Odyssey, a story of Odysseus's ten-year journey home after the Trojan War, has inspired countless adaptations.
Nolan's version reportedly runs three hours and used 11 miles of Imax film.
Early reviews from the London premiere suggest the film doesn't shy away from darker themes like war trauma and displacement.
Classicists are thrilled, with Mary Beard noting "Odyssey fever."
The casting of stars like Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Tom Holland may draw new audiences to Homer's work.
Already, reading groups dedicated to the Odyssey are forming, indicating a resurgence of interest in the ancient epic.
Nolan's return to foundational stories comes at a time when AI threatens creative industries.
By adapting one of humanity's greatest narratives, he reminds us of the enduring power of storytelling.
