In an era where OTT and mobile viewing have become the norm, director Christopher Nolan has proven the enduring value of theaters with his new film, 'Odyssey.' Making his first visit to Korea, Nolan emphasized the universal themes that run through his work and the essence of cinema in connecting audiences through the screen.
On the morning of August 3, a press conference for 'Odyssey' was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Gwanghwamun, Seoul. In attendance were director Christopher Nolan, producer Emma Thomas, and actors Matt Damon and Charlize Theron.
Nolan expressed his excitement, stating, "It is an honor to be in Korea. I have wanted to come for a long time, and this is my first visit. I wanted to bring my film to Korea."
He continued, "I have known since 'Interstellar' that Korean audiences have appreciated my films, and I am aware that they have had long runs here. It is always fascinating to see my films loved in places I have never been before."
Nolan added, "I wanted to come and talk to the audience directly about the film and hear their thoughts. I couldn't come for various reasons in the past, and I missed the chance to visit during 'Tenet' due to COVID-19. I am happy to meet my fans in Korea with 'Odyssey.'"
'Odyssey' tells the story of Odysseus, the hero who led the Greeks to victory in the Trojan War, as he battles the wrath of the gods on his journey home. The film adapts Homer's 'Odyssey,' regarded as the first great epic of humanity, capturing universal themes of human will, return, and the conflict between gods and humans through Nolan's signature grand scale and philosophical perspective.
Nolan has consistently expanded the possibilities of theatrical films with works like 'Inception,' 'Interstellar,' 'Dunkirk,' and 'Tenet.' He emphasized the use of real locations, live stunts, practical effects, the latest IMAX technology, and minimal CGI to bring the myth to life as a tangible experience.
The challenges Nolan presents in his films also leave a strong impression on the actors. Matt Damon remarked, "From the moment the director proposed this project to me over the phone, I thought it would be the best opportunity and experience. Although we had worked together on two previous films, I felt this project would be equally challenging yet even more rewarding. It turned out to be a greater experience than I had hoped for."
He added, "It started with an ambitious idea, and it was the first project shot entirely in IMAX. Hundreds of crew members worked together every day. I have never seen such passionate staff and actors. It felt like everyone on set truly wanted to be there. It was a joy and an honor to work hard alongside people dedicated to the film."
Charlize Theron shared, "This was my first project with the director, and I joined in the later stages, so I was quite nervous. However, it was a great experience. I could ask Matt questions and discuss camera work. What impressed me was how the director created a warm atmosphere on set. Despite the scale, it felt like we were making an independent film in an intimate setting."
Nolan stated, "What a film can offer in theaters is the experience of sharing stories with the audience. While I see it personally through the camera, we collectively experience it with everyone in the theater. It is both a personal and collective experience. I believe this is something only film can achieve. Of course, films can be accessed through other channels, and that is fine, but there is no space like the theater where a film is creatively defined when it first comes into the world."
He emphasized that 'Odyssey' was made to allow audiences to feel as if they are on the same journey as Odysseus, urging, "I hope you can experience it together with the audience in the theater."
Nolan also highlighted the importance of the cinematic experience over the film's message, expressing his hope that audiences would naturally embrace it.
He said, "I hope the film allows audiences to naturally accept and experience it, coming up with their own answers. I aimed to make it accessible even for those who may not know the story of 'Odyssey.' I hope you see it as an entertaining adventure film."
Matt Damon added, "I feel a bit nervous. I am excited to present this film to you. Depending on where you are in your life, the film's resonance will differ. I believe many people will relate to it from various perspectives. I am really curious about how Korean audiences will perceive it."
Charlize Theron noted, "The great thing about going to the theater is that you have a personal experience, and when you leave, a new conversation begins. I don’t watch trailers much these days. I prefer to follow the film wherever it leads me without knowing anything. I hope this film provides a good experience and sparks meaningful conversations. It’s exciting to hear different stories about who Calypso is, and I hope you all see it and share your thoughts."
Producer Emma Thomas stated, "I hope you enjoy 'Odyssey' as a film. I believe theaters are spaces for collective experiences where people connect and share. This film has many themes, but one of them is connection and bonding, which resonates just as much today as it did 3,000 years ago, and I hope many people around the world can relate to it."
Finally, Matt Damon expressed, "I am happy to be back in Korea, and I am even happier to be here for 'Odyssey.' I have heard that the culture of going to the movies is reviving in Korea, and I am curious about how audiences will feel after watching this film."
Charlize Theron added, "I wish I could stay for another two weeks. It feels like I have experienced so much in just a few days. I think it’s because of the warm welcome I received." Nolan concluded, "I came to Korea ahead of the release. I am grateful for the respect and appreciation you continue to show me."
'Odyssey' is set to be released in theaters on August 5.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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