The Odyssey's chilling sequences prove that it's time for a Christopher Nolan horror movie. But is it really necessary? The renowned director has always played with the unsettling, from his debut 'Following' to the mind-bending 'Inception'. However, his latest film, 'The Odyssey', takes a bold step into the realm of horror, blending body horror and otherworldly creatures in a way that's both shocking and effective. This is a new side of Nolan, and it's fascinating to witness.
The film's adaptation of Homer's epic tale presents a unique challenge for Nolan. While his previous works have often explored the human mind's complexities, 'The Odyssey' turns its gaze outward, exposing its hero, Odysseus, to a myriad of external obstacles. From the unpredictable terror of the sea to the pitch-black caves with a towering Cyclops, the film's settings are as menacing as they are breathtaking. But it's the character of Circe that truly brings the horror home.
Circe, brought to life by Samantha Morton, is a force of nature. Her presence in the film is both mesmerizing and terrifying. When Odysseus' crew eats the stew she prepares, they are unaware of the gruesome transformation that awaits them. Himesh Patel and his crew members' skulls are steadily sculpted by Circe's hands, their bodies contorting and transforming into pigs. This scene is a masterpiece of practical effects, constructed entirely in-camera, and it's a sight that Anne Hathaway, who plays Penelope, couldn't quite believe when she first saw it.
The horror that unfolds inside Circe's hut is a level of body horror that David Cronenberg would be proud of. It's a departure from Nolan's usual fare, and it's a bold move. But the buildup to this moment is equally effective. The film's tone shifts eerily as the whistling winds replace the thundering score, and the presence of big cats along the grassy pathway adds to the sense of unease. It's a simpler form of filmmaking, but it's just as effective in building tension.
Nolan has always enjoyed throwing us off-kilter, and 'The Odyssey' is no exception. The film's runtime is filled with moments of terror, giving us a fascinating window into a new side of Nolan. While I wouldn't dare to predict what a Christopher Nolan horror film would look like, I do know that I want it. With a track record like his, I'm sure it will be a thrilling and unsettling experience, and I'll be first in line to see it.
