Ben Shapiro Calls Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' a 'Masterpiece' Amid Conservative Backlash

Ben Shapiro, the political commentator and media personality, published an 18-minute review of Christopher Nolan's upcoming film "The Odyssey" on his YouTube channel this past Saturday. In the video, Shapiro offered high praise for the adaptation of the ancient Greek epic, even as conservative voices have voiced frustration over the film's casting decisions and perceived historical inaccuracies.

Shapiro Lauds Nolan as 'Best Working Director Today'

Shapiro did not hold back in his admiration for Nolan's filmmaking. He described the director as "unparalleled" and called him the best director currently working in the industry without a doubt, praising his ability to produce one iconic film after another.

The commentator also singled out Matt Damon, who plays the lead role of Odysseus, for particular acclaim. Shapiro said Damon "disappears into the part in a way that he doesn't in a lot of other movies" and called him "great as Odysseus."

Shapiro extended his praise to several supporting cast members as well. He described Robert Pattinson's performance as Antinous as that of an "excellent antagonist" who comes across as "sleazy and gross." Tom Holland was deemed "excellent" and "well cast" in the role of Telemachus, while Anne Hathaway was said to do "a great job" as Penelope.

Defending Lupita Nyong'o as Helen of Troy

One of the most contentious casting decisions among conservative critics has been the selection of Lupita Nyong'o to play Helen of Troy. Shapiro, however, pushed back against the complaints, noting that Diane Kruger — who portrayed Helen in a previous film adaptation — is German rather than Greek.

Shapiro called Nyong'o a beautiful woman and pointed out that Nolan's screenplay addresses the matter directly. According to Shapiro, the script goes out of its way to explain that the Trojan War was not actually launched because of Helen's physical appearance.

Criticism for Elliot Page's Casting as Sinon

While Shapiro was largely positive about the film, he did express confusion over the casting of Elliot Page as Sinon. He called the role an "absolute puzzler" and argued that Page's physical stature and voice did not fit the character, saying it "doesn't work."

Nolan Unfazed by Online Backlash

Director Christopher Nolan has also addressed the online criticism surrounding the film. In an interview with The Telegraph, Nolan said that backlash "comes with the territory" when making a blockbuster film.

Nolan drew on his experience directing the Batman trilogy, noting that he spent a decade working with a character that writers and artists had developed over roughly 65 years. He said that during that time, he learned not to worry about external expectations and opinions about what the character represents.

"What you have to do is honor the original text by interpreting it in the strongest way you personally can," Nolan explained.

The director's comments come amid broader right-wing criticism of the film, with figures including Elon Musk among those who have voiced objections to the casting choices.

As Nolan's adaptation of the ancient Greek epic continues to generate debate across the political spectrum, the conversation shows no signs of slowing down. What do you think about the casting decisions and the backlash? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts.

Source: Variety