Monday night's premiere of Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey' was a game-changer – a cinematic beast that has critics frothing at the mouth like a pent-up sea monster. This three-hour epic is no mere retelling of Homer's classic poem; it's a monumental odyssey in its own right, with some pundits already placing their bets on a Best Picture Oscar.
Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian's esteemed critic, was effusive in his praise, hailing 'Odyssey' as "a colossal origin-myth story of postwar disillusion and a loss of innocence witnessed by the dead" – a tantalising teaser that whets the appetite for more. Meanwhile, IndieWire's Anne Thompson has anointed it "the best picture contender to beat", suggesting Matt Damon's performance is on the cusp of Oscar greatness. And what's more, she lavished praise on the film's production values, claiming they're "stunningly mounted" – a testament to Nolan's unwavering dedication to his craft.
As expected from one of the world's greatest directors, 'Odyssey' is a visual feast that will leave even the most jaded cinemagoer gobsmacked. Erik Davis, writing for IndieWire, described it as "an absolute triumph and a crowning cinematic achievement" – a fitting tribute to Nolan's long-held relationship with IMAX cameras. Shot entirely on large-format IMAX film stock, the production design is nothing short of breathtaking, while the action sequences have an incredible scope and scale that draws the viewer in like a hungry sea lion.
But it's not just the visuals that are making waves – individual performances are also garnering widespread acclaim. Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway shine as the Odyssean heroes, but Robert Pattinson steals the show with his menacing portrayal of Antinous, conjuring up an aura of conniving menace that's simply irresistible to watch. And Tom Holland, no stranger to cinematic spectacle, proves himself versatile in a role that's equal parts action hero and vulnerable human.
Of course, not everyone is entirely sold – David Ehrlich at IndieWire found it "too clunky to be S-tier Nolan", but even he couldn't deny the film's thrilling final act. Meanwhile, classical historian Tom Holland (no relation to the actor) has given 'Odyssey' his seal of approval, calling it "by some way the best cinematic adaptation of a Greek myth I have ever seen" – and that's saying something from a man who's watched his fair share of epics.