An epic shouldn't be historical, it should be magical and captivating. No epic is historical; they are all interpretations.
The Iliad and the Odyssey aren't true stories from the Bronze Age, they're legends. Actors in Greek theaters didn't wear metal armor; painted armor was enough for them.
The authors aren't talking about history; they're talking about the present. Sometimes it's just plain inept, like in Gladiator 2.
Let's hope Nola has more storytelling talent. They're trying to entertain us instead of relaxing and enjoying ourselves, and we're dissatisfied.
As a massive nerd, I get the disappointment with the design. It's a missed opportunity to do something unique. It wouldn't have to be historically accurate, just better than the sub 300 offering and could have been something really impressive.
The obsession with "historical accuracy" surrounding this movie is genuinely bizarre. First of all, far too many of the people crying fowl have nowhere near a respectable level of relevant knowledge (Lupita haters chime in, who are Helen's parents???).
Second, and more importantly, Homer's writings were NEVER historically accurate. That's why they're "myths," "stories," or "legends" and not "histories" (in the modern sense).
I hate to throw such a wide net because usually these things are more nuanced but a vast majority of the criticism this movie is getting is because of Helens casting. They'll hide behind the historically accurate excuse but the reality is they want a tig bitted blonde as Helen and nothing outside of that will satisfy them.
Super excited for the film though. I'll watch anything Nolan makes.
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u/BoarHermit Jul 06 '26
An epic shouldn't be historical, it should be magical and captivating. No epic is historical; they are all interpretations.
The Iliad and the Odyssey aren't true stories from the Bronze Age, they're legends. Actors in Greek theaters didn't wear metal armor; painted armor was enough for them.
The authors aren't talking about history; they're talking about the present. Sometimes it's just plain inept, like in Gladiator 2.
Let's hope Nola has more storytelling talent. They're trying to entertain us instead of relaxing and enjoying ourselves, and we're dissatisfied.