Anne Hathaway said she remained in character throughout the filming of Christopher Nolan's upcoming adaptation of Homer's 'The Odyssey'.
The production marks a significant return to the epic scale for Nolan. The film's approach to the classical text suggests a blend of historical grandeur and the director's signature intensity, aiming to reinterpret one of the most influential stories in Western literature.
During an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Hathaway said she portrayed Penelope as a "ride-or-die" who possesses a distinct sense of danger [2]. This interpretation departs from more passive depictions of the character, framing Penelope as an active participant in the story's peril.
Hathaway's commitment to the role extended beyond her scenes on screen. She said she stayed in character on set even when the camera would not see her for three days [3]. This method of immersion was designed to maintain the emotional continuity of the character's journey.
Nolan's involvement in the project follows a long history with the genre. He was first hired to direct a swords-and-sandals epic, specifically 'Troy', more than 20 years ago [5]. While that project did not materialize at the time, 'The Odyssey' represents the fulfillment of a long-term interest in the medium.
Regarding the creative philosophy behind the film, Nolan said, "You want to scare yourself" [4]. This approach emphasizes the tension, and psychological weight of the narrative over simple spectacle.
The film is scheduled for release in the UK on July 17 [1].
“"I was fully in character on set, even when the camera wouldn't see me for three days."”
The collaboration between Christopher Nolan and Anne Hathaway signals a move toward psychological realism within the epic genre. By emphasizing the 'danger' of Penelope and the director's desire to 'scare' himself, the production suggests that 'The Odyssey' will focus more on the internal and emotional stakes of the characters than on traditional action-oriented tropes of ancient Greece.
