Product: The Odyssey [VHS] (1997)
Rating: 4.0
A great adaptation of a classic tale
Thrilling battles, heroic feats, and passionate reunions--this adaptation of The Odyssey has something for everyone. Although it focuses on only the most famous portions of Homer's epic and oversimplifies some of Odysseus's internal struggles, this film captures the spirit of The Odyssey and will help introduce a new generation to the Cyclops, Scylla, and a host of sexy enchantresses. Armand Assante embodies Odysseus--his swaggering bravado, his compassion for his men, his longing for home--and the effects are pretty impressive for a television adaptation. Great for teachers as a companion to the text: this film offers enough context to help make the epic poem accessible to struggling readers. Some graphic violence, and a few passionate scenes (though only one is truly awkward), but certainly less violent than the text itself. It's not a cinematic triumph, and won't be adored by those who already love The Odyssey, but it will draw in those who are new to the stories of brave Odysseus, master mariner and soldier.