Not Just Nolan’s 'Odyssey': Top 5 Films Inspired by Ancient Greek Mythology
A loose adaptation of Homer’s poem is among them, by the way.
We often think of myths and legends as ancient relics. Yet they remain alive — both in school curricula and in modern art. Their relevance endures, continuing to inspire artists of all kinds.
This applies not only to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic Odyssey, based on Homer’s poem. It’s also true for many existing films with mythological undertones you might not have noticed.
The Lighthouse (2019)
Robert Eggers’ black-and-white horror tells the story of two lighthouse keepers on a remote island. Over time, both begin to lose their sanity. Two moments in the film nod to Greek mythology.
In one, the characters played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson fight, with Dafoe’s character appearing almost godlike. In the other — the final scene — Pattinson’s character is eaten alive by seagulls. These scenes reference Proteus, the shapeshifting sea god, and Prometheus — the Titan punished by an eagle devouring his liver.
The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
The film’s title refers to the myth of Iphigenia, whom Agamemnon had to sacrifice for killing a sacred deer.
This ancient story is set in modern times. Dr. Steven Murphy loses a patient during surgery. Years later, he meets the deceased man's son, Martin, who blames him. Martin believes someone from the doctor’s family must die to restore balance.
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Baz Luhrmann’s musical drama draws inspiration from the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Christian, like Orpheus, is a poet and musician who falls in love with a woman of great beauty. She, in turn, seems destined for tragedy.
Though the film includes many cultural references, the Greek myth remains a key influence — even if reinterpreted.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
Many assumed Nolan would be the first to adapt The Odyssey, but the Coen brothers did it earlier — in their own way.
Their film isn’t a direct adaptation, but it features many elements from Homer’s epic. The hero is named Ulysses, the Roman version of Odysseus. The story includes prophecies, sirens, and an epic journey home.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Even the film’s title echoes ancient Greek themes. Like Odysseus, astronaut Dave Bowman embarks on a long journey. His path through space reveals the universe’s secrets.
Greek gods are also present — in new forms. The mission’s destination is Jupiter, the Roman counterpart of Zeus, king of the gods.
