New Look at Lupita Nyong’o as Clytemnestra in ‘The Odyssey’ Leaves Fans Stunned
A new look at Lupita Nyong’o in The Odyssey is getting huge attention online, but not all of the reactions have been positive.
A new image of Nyong’o as Clytemnestra from director Christopher Nolan’s upcoming movie recently started spreading across social media, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about topics among film fans.
According to early reactions shared online, many people praised the actress’s look and said she fits the role perfectly. Fans called the image “powerful,” “intense,” and “beautiful,” while others said they are even more excited for the movie after seeing the new character reveal.
But at the same time, there has also been major backlash online over Nyong’o being cast in the film. Some critics on social media argued they wanted the movie to stay closer to their personal idea of ancient Greek mythology and questioned some of the casting choices in Nolan’s adaptation. The backlash has sparked heated debates across platforms like X and Reddit, with many users defending Nyong’o and calling the criticism unfair.
Neither Nyong’o nor Nolan has publicly responded to the online arguments surrounding the casting.
The movie is one of the biggest upcoming Hollywood projects and is based on Homer’s ancient Greek epic poem, “The Odyssey.” According to production details released by Universal Pictures, the story follows Odysseus as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War while facing dangerous creatures, gods, and impossible challenges along the way.
Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, while Anne Hathaway plays his wife Penelope. The cast also includes Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron.
Nyong’o is reportedly playing two roles in the film, including Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra. Clytemnestra is known in Greek mythology as the wife of Agamemnon and one of the most tragic and controversial female figures in the story.
Nolan reportedly started writing the script in 2024 before officially setting up the project with Universal Pictures later that year. Filming took place across several countries, including Greece, Morocco, Italy, Iceland, and Scotland.
The film has also attracted attention because of its massive budget. Reports claim the production cost reached around $250 million, making it the most expensive movie Nolan has ever directed. It is also reportedly the first feature film shot entirely using IMAX 70 mm cameras.
Nolan previously explained that he wanted the movie to feel more grounded and realistic despite the fantasy elements from Greek mythology. The director also drew inspiration from Emily Wilson’s modern translation of “The Odyssey” as well as classic fantasy adventure films created by special effects legend Ray Harryhausen.
At the moment, excitement for the film continues to grow online despite the controversy surrounding some casting decisions. Many fans are especially curious to see how Nolan handles famous mythological characters like Athena, Calypso, Circe, and the Cyclops Polyphemus on screen.
“The Odyssey” is currently scheduled to hit theaters and IMAX screens in the United States on July 17.
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