Emily Wilson, the University of Pennsylvania classics professor whose translation of Homer's “The Odyssey” inspired Christopher Nolan's forthcoming film adaptation, has publicly criticized the movie, calling its script "abysmal" and its narrative structure "gimmicky."
In a review published in the London Review of Books, Wilson described Nolan's film as "an entertaining way to hide from the high temperatures for a few hours" and likened it to "an elaborate Fourth of July fireworks display – and with about the same level of narrative and emotional depth."
While acknowledging that adaptations do not need to adhere strictly to their source material, Wilson stated that the film's vision was "too confused" and its characters "too underdeveloped." She argued that the movie "lacks many of the elements that make the poem great" and fails to offer a convincing perspective on themes such as time, memory, history, and war.
According to Wilson, the film also suffers from a lack of "psychological, emotional, political, and ethical depth." She further noted that none of the characters exhibit convincing motivations and that the film omits sex scenes while presenting all food unappetizingly.
Despite her strong criticisms, Wilson expressed being "humbled" that Nolan cited her translation's opening line, "Tell me about a complicated man." However, she added that she would "be ashamed to have written any part of this script."
Nolan's film, inspired by Wilson's 2017 translation, is slated for release in 2026. Despite her scathing review, Wilson concluded by calling the film's release "an event to celebrate" and commended Nolan for his efforts to encourage public engagement with literature.