“Looking at nature as some cis hetero patriarchal structure is absurd,” Page said. “This gender binary that we’ve created is nothing but a quaint little myth.”
Christopher Nolan's upcoming adaptation of "The Odyssey" is facing mounting backlash over a series of casting decisions, with much of the criticism centered on transgender actor Elliot Page portraying the Greek warrior Sinon. Despite this, Nolan has dismissed the backlash, saying that the part is great for Page. This comes as the transgender actress has also claimed that animals can be LGBTQ too.
Social media erupted after trailers and promotional material revealed Page's role in the movie as the Greek warrior Sinon. The controversy comes just months after Page made headlines promoting the documentary Animals Are Queer, where the actor claimed animals could be LGBTQ+. "Looking at nature as some cis hetero patriarchal structure is absurd," Page said in an April interview. "This gender binary that we've created is nothing but a quaint little myth."
Pink News has reported how Nolan dismissed the controversy surrounding Page's casting, calling it "irrelevant." During another interview, Nolan praised Page as "terrific" to play Sinon, saying the role was "such a great part for him."
This has not been the only casting decision drawing fire. Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o was cast as Helen of Troy, which has drawn fire from some who have said that Helen of Troy would have been white in ancient Greece. Even Elon Musk weighed in, replying "How pathetic" to a post criticizing the film's casting decisions.
"Christopher Nolan has cancelled all screenings of The Odyssey with movie influencers. He is only allowing approved critics to see it in advance. He is waving the surrender flag. They know they have a financial disaster on their hands," online creator Wall Street Maverick said. Nolan has defended his decision, as well as his casting of Travis Scott. He has argued that the oral tradition of Homer's poetry shares similarities with modern rap performance.
Lupita Nyong'o attempted to quell the controversy, saying the film represents "the epic narrative of our time" rather than a literal recreation of ancient Greece.
"The Odyssey" is scheduled to premiere in theaters on July 17.
Libby’s Desk
Commentary and must-reads from Libby’s desk, straight to your inbox.
TPM Newsletter
The Post Millennial’s top stories, delivered to your inbox.
