‘Odyssey’ translator Emily Wilson says Nolan shouldn’t have written the movie himself
Odyssey Translator Emily Wilson Critiques Nolan's Screenplay
Ecorescuezone.com – Odyssey translator Emily Wilson says Christopher Nolan's ambitious adaptation of Homer's epic has captivated audiences worldwide, yet she believes the filmmaker should have entrusted the screenplay to another writer. Wilson, a classics professor at the University of Pennsylvania, released her celebrated translation of the ancient Greek poem in 2017 after six years of meticulous work. She became the first woman to translate the entire epic into English, earning praise for its clarity and vitality. Now, she offers a candid assessment of how Nolan brought her beloved text to the silver screen.
Wilson acknowledges the film's commercial triumph but identifies several creative missteps. She notes that Odysseus lacks clear motivation throughout the story. "He doesn't seem to want food. He doesn't seem to want sex. What does he want?" Wilson asks. The translator also observes that intimate moments between characters feel absent, and the food scenes lack visual appeal. Beyond these surface details, she questions whether the protagonist's emotional journey resonates with viewers.
A Scholar's Honest Assessment
The Odyssey translator Emily Wilson emphasizes that Odysseus should be portrayed as a complex, intelligent figure. In her view, the film reduces him to a version of Matt Damon—constantly anxious rather than strategically brilliant. Wilson recalls how Homer's hero outwitted the Cyclops and designed the wooden horse that secured victory at Troy. "He's clever, and smart, and therefore a fascinating character," she explains. "But the movie gives us a version of Matt Damon as Odysseus, who is not required to be smart."
Wilson also appreciates the film's thoughtful approach to mythology. She notes that classical sirens appeared as bird-women who lured sailors to their doom. The movie leaves room for interpretation regarding the gods—whether Zeus and Poseidon exist as literal beings or symbolize natural forces. Similarly, figures like Calypso and Circe might represent metaphorical challenges rather than divine entities.
Looking Forward
Despite her criticisms, Wilson enthusiastically endorses the movie. "The actors are amazing. It's a star-studded cast and they're doing their absolute best with the script they were given," she says. She encourages viewers to consider what the film reveals about war, violence, and deception in modern society. Wilson is already moving forward with new projects. She describes herself as "addicted" to Homer's work and is currently crafting a fresh translation that breaks free from strict line-by-line formatting.
"I'm using more lines, therefore longer words sometimes," Wilson shares. "And I'm also going to have much, much longer end notes. I'm having so much fun. I'm over halfway through and I never want it to end."
Readers can also anticipate Wilson's upcoming essay collection, "Crossing the Wine-Dark Sea: Journeys Through Ancient Literature," arriving in September. The book explores connections between classical Greek and Roman writings and contemporary hip-hop culture, drawing parallels between Aristophanes and artists like Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Emily Wilson's translation of the Odyssey published? Wilson's acclaimed translation of Homer's epic was released in 2017 after six years of dedicated scholarly work.
What is Wilson's main criticism of Nolan's screenplay? The Odyssey translator Emily Wilson says the primary issue is that Odysseus lacks clear motivation and emotional depth throughout the film.
Is Wilson working on a new translation? Yes, Wilson is currently developing a new version that uses more flexible line structures and includes extensive end notes.
When will Wilson's essay collection be published? "Crossing the Wine-Dark Sea: Journeys Through Ancient Literature" is scheduled for release in September.