Homer Translator Critiques Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey'
Emily Wilson calls the blockbuster's writing 'abysmal' despite its popularity.
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Emily Wilson, the academic whose translation of Homer's Odyssey was cited by director Christopher Nolan as an influence, has published a strongly critical review of the filmmaker's recent adaptation. The review, appearing in the London Review of Books, described the film's narrative structure as 'gimmicky' and its writing as 'abysmal'.
Critique of Writing and Characterisation
Wilson stated that none of the characters in the film possessed convincing motivations for their actions or dialogue. She further noted the absence of sex scenes and described the food depicted as unappealing. According to Wilson, the film lacked psychological, emotional, political, and ethical depth. She contrasted this with the source material, suggesting that while the film included more female characters than typical for Nolan's work, they were given little to say, unlike their counterparts in the poem.
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Despite her criticisms, Wilson acknowledged that the film's release had generated significant renewed interest in Homer's classic. She observed that translations of the Odyssey, including her own, were experiencing increased sales. Wilson expressed gratitude that the film might encourage public engagement with literature and potentially support academic departments focused on humanities.
Nolan's Influence and Film Reception
During the film's promotional tour, Nolan mentioned to Empire magazine that he had used the opening line of Wilson's translation, 'Tell me about a complicated man,' as a guiding principle for the character of Odysseus, played by Matt Damon. In stark contrast to Wilson's assessment, the film adaptation has been met with widespread praise from other film critics. Publications such as The Telegraph, Metro, The Times, and the Standard have lauded the movie with highly positive reviews.
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The Odyssey, released earlier this month, features a cast including Zendaya, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong'o, and Matt Damon. The film follows the journey of Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as he returns home from the Trojan War.
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