The Odyssey – Budget of $250 million – 2 hours and 53 minutes
 |
Penelope, the Queen of Ithaca, sits behind a wall of lattice, creating a burial shroud for her father as suitors wait for her to choose a new husband. It’s been 20 years since her husband, Odysseus, left on a mission to Troy. He knew the battle would last a long time, but she believed he would return someday. The Trojan War only lasted 8 years, and the other men who fought with Odysseus have returned. Penelope still waits for him. Their son, Telemachus, learns combat fighting under the tutelage of Eumaeus. Eumaeus learned from Odysseus and now basks in the honor of teaching the king’s son.
Telemachus enters his mother’s room and pleads with her to let him take the throne since he will come of age soon. She fears the suitors will kill him and take it, especially Antinous. Antinous sits with the other suitors daily, enjoying food and drink. He and his confidant, Polybus, want to start a battle inside Penelope’s home. They can use the battle to kill Telemachus and take the throne. So Penelope will wait for Odysseus and create her shroud while honoring Zeus’s law. Telemachus asks for a ship to find his father, but Penelope says no. He defies her orders and goes on a quest to find Odysseus. He will hear stories about a warrior he never knew, but will he ever find him before his mother is forced to remarry?
Based on Homer’s poem, this film was masterfully written, directed, and edited (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). The director’s choice to use natural lighting and location shooting helps the audience lose themselves in the mythology. Some scenes will stand out in your mind because of how they were shot. When Antinous enters Penelope’s quarters, he tries to manipulate her. The director framed it behind her unfinished shroud. Penelope’s face was visible while Antinous remained hidden amongst the thread. Also, the battle on Aeaea is eye candy. The trees move around with ease and grace to entrap Odysseus’s soldiers. For a moment, you won’t believe what you are seeing. Viewers should know that the story is non-linear. However, this helps tie scenes together later so you can understand the full context. The costumes, hair, makeup, and special effects never distract from the story. They amplify it. This film is nearly three hours long, but it never feels like it. Viewers should enjoy this movie on the largest possible screen with the best possible surround sound.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
You’re Odysseus – Polybus
In this world, man does what he chooses. I do what I can – Penelope
You have wise eyes – Telemachus
Hunting is fighting with stealth – Odysseus
I don’t need eyes – Eumaeus
Too much is never enough – Circe
Who doesn’t understand pain – Athena
No one can replace Odysseus – Antinous
Tell your mother I’m sorry – Helen
thatdarngirlmovie.reviews 