Backlash Against Christopher Nolan’s Upcoming Film, The Odyssey
Director Christopher Nolan’s new film, The Odyssey, is already stirring controversy for being filmed on indigenous lands, specifically in the Western Sahara, which is under military occupation.
After wrapping up filming last week, the Saharawi government voiced “deep concern” regarding the project being shot in Dakura city. They condemned the choice of location, emphasizing that it’s inappropriate to select occupied territories for significant international filmmaking. The statement detailed that this action reflects the unethical use of art to portray a colonial situation that normalizes occupation and undermines the struggles of those fighting for their rights.
Similarly, the Western Sahara International Film Festival (Fisahara) has urged Nolan and Universal Pictures to reconsider filming in Dakura, calling for solidarity with the Saharawi people, who have faced military oppression for decades. Their statement suggests that by filming in these areas, the production may inadvertently support the repressive regime in Morocco.
Actor Javier Bardem, who has participated in Fisahara, relayed the festival’s message through his Instagram, highlighting the plight of the Saharawi people who have been displaced and oppressed over the past 50 years. Bardem noted that Dakura has transitioned from a city into a tourist attraction, effectively erasing the Saharawi identity.
On the other hand, a Moroccan film center has labeled the project as “very important,” claiming it’s the first major Hollywood film to be produced in the region. They suggest that the location offers unique opportunities for foreign productions, showcasing Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
While filming for The Odyssey lasted approximately four days, the area is classified as non-self-governing by the United Nations, with about 70% of the territory under Moroccan administration. Morocco proposes a plan to grant autonomy under its sovereignty, a move that has been recognized, in part, by previous U.S. administrations.
The Odyssey, which adapts a poem from Homer’s ancient work, is expected to be released on July 17, 2026. It has been filmed in various countries, including Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, and Iceland, with plans for additional filming in Ireland and the UK.
