Christopher Nolan explains why ‘The Odyssey’ uses modern English
Christopher Nolan has addressed why his upcoming epic The Odyssey features modern English dialogue instead of language resembling Homer’s ancient Greek text.
Speaking to the Los Angeles Times ahead of the film’s July release, the Oscar-winning filmmaker explained that his approach as screenwriter was guided by emotional accessibility rather than historical authenticity.
“I wanted language that has emotional not intellectual meaning to people,” Nolan said, explaining why the film’s characters speak contemporary English, largely with American accents.
The decision drew debate online after trailers for The Odyssey revealed the modern dialogue, surprising some viewers expecting language closer to the original epic poem from around the 8th or 7th century BC.
Reflecting on the creative choice, Nolan admitted, “I was maybe being naïve, it might bite me on the ass, but I wanted an earthy narrative. To me it was a no-brainer.”
The director also defended assembling an all-star cast, saying the familiar faces help audiences connect with the legendary story. The film stars Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o and Jon Bernthal.
“These are mythological figures, iconic in some ways,” Nolan said. “I wanted to cast it big, get the finest bunch of actors,” adding that their recognisable faces would help contemporary audiences feel more at home with the ancient tale.
The Odyssey opens in cinemas on July 17 through Universal Pictures.
