Introduction
The Odyssey, a 1997 television miniseries directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, stands as a monumental adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek epic poem. This production brings to life the harrowing journey of Odysseus, the clever king of Ithaca, as he navigates treacherous seas, mythical creatures, and divine interventions on his way home from the Trojan War. Often referred to as “The Odyssey movie” due to its cinematic scope and feature-length episodes, it captures the essence of adventure and destiny that has captivated audiences for millennia. Starring Armand Assante in the lead role, alongside a stellar cast including Greta Scacchi, Isabella Rossellini, and Christopher Lee, the film blends mythological grandeur with human drama. Released as a two-part miniseries, it aired on NBC and garnered critical acclaim for its faithful yet accessible retelling. In an era before high-budget fantasy series like Game of Thrones, The Odyssey set a benchmark for epic storytelling on screen, emphasizing themes of perseverance, fate, and the human spirit.
Spanning approximately three hours in total, The Odyssey movie transports viewers to a world where gods meddle in mortal affairs, heroes defy odds, and destiny weaves an intricate tapestry. Its production value, including stunning locations in Malta, Turkey, and the UK, evokes the ancient Mediterranean with authenticity. The narrative’s timeless appeal lies in its exploration of universal struggles: the longing for home, the battle against adversity, and the interplay between free will and predestined paths. As we delve deeper, we’ll uncover how this adaptation honors Homer’s work while making it relevant for modern audiences.
Plot Summary
The Odyssey movie begins with the fall of Troy, where Odysseus (Armand Assante) masterminds the Trojan Horse strategy that ends the decade-long war. Eager to return to his wife Penelope (Greta Scacchi) and son Telemachus (Alan Stenson as a child, later played by others), Odysseus sets sail with his crew. However, the gods have other plans. Poseidon (voiced by an unseen force but embodied through storms) curses Odysseus for blinding his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus, ensuring a perilous voyage.
The first part of the miniseries chronicles early trials: the encounter with the Lotus Eaters, who tempt the men with forgetfulness-inducing fruits; the brutal clash with Polyphemus in his cave; and the seductive yet deadly Sirens, whose songs lure sailors to their doom. Odysseus’s ingenuity shines as he ties himself to the mast to hear their call while his crew plugs their ears with wax. Aeolus, the wind god, gifts a bag of winds, but curiosity among the crew unleashes storms that drive them off course.
In the second part, the adventures intensify. The witch Circe (Bernadette Peters) transforms Odysseus’s men into pigs, only to be outwitted by the hero with Hermes’ aid. A descent into the Underworld allows Odysseus to consult the prophet Tiresias (Christopher Lee), learning of his fate. The perils continue with Scylla and Charybdis, the monstrous whirlpool and cliff-dwelling beast, and the sacred cattle of Helios, whose slaughter dooms the remaining crew.
Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, Penelope fends off suitors who presume Odysseus dead, weaving and unraveling a shroud to delay remarriage. Telemachus embarks on his own quest for news of his father, guided by Athena (Isabella Rossellini). The climax unfolds upon Odysseus’s return, disguised as a beggar, where he slays the suitors in a bloody reckoning, reuniting with his family. This plot mirrors Homer’s structure, blending action, romance, and tragedy into a cohesive epic.
Key Characters
At the heart of The Odyssey movie is Odysseus, portrayed by Armand Assante with a mix of rugged charisma and intellectual depth. He’s not a flawless hero but a flawed man driven by wit and resilience, making him relatable. Penelope, played by Greta Scacchi, embodies steadfast loyalty, her quiet strength contrasting the chaos of Odysseus’s journey.
Divine figures add layers: Athena, as Isabella Rossellini, is a benevolent guide, her ethereal presence highlighting destiny’s favor. Poseidon represents vengeful fate, while Circe (Bernadette Peters) and Calypso (Vanessa Williams) introduce temptation and isolation. Supporting roles like Eurymachus (Eric Roberts) as a scheming suitor and Eumaeus the loyal swineherd ground the story in human emotions.
Christopher Lee’s Tiresias provides prophetic wisdom, his blind eyes seeing the threads of destiny. The ensemble cast elevates the film, turning archetypal figures into vivid personalities.
Themes of Adventure and Destiny
The Odyssey movie masterfully explores adventure as a metaphor for life’s unpredictability. Odysseus’s odyssey—literally a long journey—symbolizes the human quest for meaning amid chaos. Each trial, from Cyclopes to sorceresses, tests physical and moral fortitude, underscoring that true adventure lies in growth through hardship.
Destiny weaves throughout, with gods pulling strings yet allowing mortal agency. Athena’s interventions suggest favored paths, but Odysseus’s choices—defying Polyphemus or sparing lives—shape outcomes. This interplay questions free will: Is destiny inevitable, or can cunning alter it? The film posits a balance, where adventure forges character within fate’s bounds.
Themes of homecoming (nostos) and hospitality (xenia) resonate, critiquing hubris and celebrating humility. In a modern context, it reflects post-war trauma, with Odysseus’s PTSD-like struggles mirroring veterans’ returns.
Production and Direction
Directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, known for epic scopes, The Odyssey movie was a Hallmark Entertainment production with a $30 million budget—lavish for 1990s TV. Filmed across Mediterranean locales, it authentically recreates ancient Greece, from rocky islands to palatial sets.
Special effects, groundbreaking for the time, used practical and early CGI: Polyphemus as a massive puppet, Scylla with animatronics. Cinematographer Sergei Kozlov captures sweeping vistas, enhancing the epic feel. The score by Eduard Artemyev blends orchestral swells with ethnic instruments, evoking myth’s timelessness.
Konchalovsky’s vision stays true to Homer while condensing elements for pacing, making it accessible without dumbing down.
Visual Effects and Cinematography
For a 1997 production, The Odyssey boasts impressive visuals. The Cyclops sequence combines makeup, prosthetics, and forced perspective for realism. Underwater scenes with sirens use innovative filming techniques, creating ethereal beauty.
Cinematography employs wide shots for battles and intimate close-ups for emotional beats, balancing spectacle with intimacy. Color grading—vibrant for godly realms, muted for mortal struggles—visually distinguishes themes.
Reception and Legacy
Upon release, The Odyssey movie received positive reviews, earning two Emmys for directing and effects. Critics praised its fidelity and performances, with Variety calling it “a rousing adventure.” Audiences appreciated the family-friendly tone, blending gore with mythology.
Its legacy endures in inspiring later adaptations like Troy (2004) and the Percy Jackson series. Available on streaming, it introduces new generations to Homer, proving the story’s timelessness.
Conclusion
The Odyssey movie remains a beacon of epic cinema, encapsulating adventure and destiny in a narrative that transcends time. Through Odysseus’s trials, we see our own journeys reflected—battles against odds, guided by fate yet driven by will. This adaptation honors its source while inviting reflection on enduring human themes.
FAQ
What is The Odyssey about?
The Odyssey movie is an adaptation of Homer’s epic poem, following King Odysseus’s 10-year journey home after the Trojan War, facing gods, monsters, and trials while his wife, Penelope, wards off suitors in Ithaca.
Who stars in The Odyssey movie?
The film features Armand Assante as Odysseus, Greta Scacchi as Penelope, Isabella Rossellini as Athena, Bernadette Peters as Circe, Vanessa Williams as Calypso, and Christopher Lee as Tiresias, among others.
Is The Odyssey movie faithful to the original poem?
Yes, it closely follows Homer’s plot and themes, though some elements are condensed or modernized for television pacing. It retains key adventures like the Cyclops, Sirens, and Underworld visit.
Where can I watch The Odyssey movie?
It’s available on streaming platforms like Prime Video, Netflix (in some regions), and YouTube, or for purchase on DVD via Amazon.
How long is The Odyssey movie?
As a two-part miniseries, it totals about 176 minutes, with each episode around 88 minutes.
What awards did The Odyssey movie win?
It won two Primetime Emmys: one for Outstanding Directing in a Miniseries and one for Outstanding Special Visual Effects.
Is The Odyssey movie suitable for children?
It’s rated PG-13 for violence and some sensuality, but it’s often viewed as family-friendly with educational value on mythology, though parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
How does The Odyssey movie compare to other adaptations?
Compared to films like Ulysses (1954), it offers more comprehensive coverage and better effects. It’s praised for its epic scale, unlike shorter or looser interpretations.