Reactions continue over Christopher Nolan’s new film, The Odyssey, with Elon Musk accusing the director of “dishonoring Homer’s grave.” Commenting on the film, Yannis Smaragdis argues that the casting of Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy is a strategy aimed at Oscar nominations, while defending artists’ right to express themselves freely.

Smaragdis spoke to Open TV cameras at the Ianos bookstore, where he reflected on his career and distinctions:

“I am the only living Greek director who has two films among the top ten films of all time: El Greco and now Kapodistrias. I also have the distinct honor of being the only Greek film director who is an academician — specifically at the European Academy of Sciences and Arts.”

He added:

“What I mean is that I can leave this world peacefully. Now, if the highest power gives me strength, I will also make Kolokotronis, and perhaps that too will become a book.”

The director attended the presentation of the reflective work by Mimis Tsakoniatis titled YANNIS SMARAGDIS – The Architect of the Soul.

His view on “The Odyssey” and the casting choices

Responding to journalists’ questions about Christopher Nolan’s film, Smaragdis said:

“An artist like Nolan has the right to do whatever he wants, if the intention is good. Mr. Musk came out and said he’s doing it for other reasons.”

Regarding the Oscars, he stated:

“The Academy Awards rules require two categories: LGBTQ themes or an immigration element. And Nolan, who is…an intelligent man, does not want to be excluded from awards consideration. So if this was done for that reason, it is disgraceful.”

Comments on criticism and EKKOMED

The director continued:

“It is the second time that foreign centers are trying to convince us that our sacred symbols and values come from Africa. Previously they claimed that Athena was Black. If this is Nolan’s intention, then it is a hostile act and a deception against the Greeks.”

Referring to the Greek audiovisual organization EKKOMED, which funds foreign film productions, he commented:

“It was right to include Nolan’s Odyssey, because it is trying to attract Greek productions. However, it has no right to decide which actors will play the roles; that is not its job.”