The Return (2024) movie reimagines the legendary conclusion of Homer’s The Odyssey with a realistic storyline that almost seems like it could have happened for real! While many movies based on The Odyssey attempt to tell the whole story, The Return zeroes in on the moment when Odysseus washes up on the shore of his home island, Ithaca.
Here, Odysseus is king and husband to Penelope. However, everything has shifted dramatically since his departure for the Trojan War. With Odysseus away from his island home for two long decades, a swarm of suitors demand to marry his wife!
This version of “The Odyssey” possesses much more realism than many other adaptions, so you won’t see a one-eyed Cyclops or any Greek Gods in this film, but you will witness a more realistic version of events from the time Odysseus arrives back in Ithaca.
This reimagining of The Odyssey, featuring the incredible talents of Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche, infuses this timeless epic with vibrant new energy and depth! Their captivating performances and the fresh perspective bring an enchanting brilliance to this classic tale, making it a must-see for both newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Watching this movie is a breathtaking cinematic journey that immerses audiences in a thrilling odyssey filled with profound emotional resonance and intricate moral dilemmas — challenges that mirror the complexities of our own lives. With a masterful blend of rich storytelling and dynamic characters that leap off the screen, The Return will surely resonate with the hearts of both devoted fans of the original Greek myth and those diving into these mythic waters for the very first time.
Whether you feel more in tune with Odysseus (male side) or Penelope (female side), The Return navigates the unpredictable labyrinth of human experience very well, containing the thrill of adventure, the warmth of hope, the ache of longing, and the intricate dynamics of love, loyalty, betrayal, power, and revenge.
There are heart-stopping moments and soul-stirring revelations as The Return transforms an ancient narrative into a contemporary masterpiece, inviting everyone to reflect on their own paths, perseverance, and the power of love against all odds! One thing the film will likely do is leave you questioning your own odyssey and celebrating the indomitable spirit of humanity!
This artistic cinematic masterpiece will take viewers not only to the shores of Ithaca but also deep into Odysseus’s mind as he struggles with the emotional wounds left by the Trojan War.
The Return (2024): Movie Review
“The Return” movie begins with visuals reminiscent of Greek sculptures, accompanied by haunting echoes of battle, leading to a beautifully animated sequence showcasing Odysseus’s clever creation: the Trojan Horse.
It’s a reminder that victory often comes at a great cost, and as viewers are drawn into this captivating story, they are reminded that the challenges of war are rarely behind those who partake in it.
The Return isn’t just a another movie based on the Odyssey myth — it’s a film that dares to ask profound questions about loyalty, legacy, and the nature of home, all while breathing new life into the Greek myth that has withstood the test of time.
“The Return” reimagines the timeless tale of Odysseus with some beautiful scenes, introducing a fresh and captivating perspective on his legendary journey.
Early on in The Return, you will see a powerful image: Odysseus, a weary hero, washed ashore on the enchanting island of Ithaca.
This dramatic moment serves as the catalyst for a profound exploration of his homecoming, inviting the film’s viewers to witness the trials and triumphs that await him in a way that is both innovative and deeply resonant.
The Ithaca he remembers is now a land infused with turmoil, ruled by suitors vying for his wife Penelope’s hand and grappling with his son Telemachus’s growing resentment.
The Return uniquely blends stunning visual storytelling with powerful character arcs that explore the themes of identity and resilience. Each character, from the loyal Penelope to the frustrated Telemachus, takes center stage, revealing their own struggles and growth amidst the chaos.
The film invites viewers to ponder the cost of heroism: can Odysseus truly reclaim his reign without losing the very essence of who he is?
Odysseus: Ralph Fiennes
I feel compelled to ask this question. Was Ralph Fiennes the best choice to portray Odysseus in The Return? While I believe he delivered a commendable performance, I feel that an actor like Russell Crowe — known for his powerful role in Gladiator — could have brought a different depth to the character of Odysseus. Crowe’s intense presence and versatility might have resonated more with audiences, making his portrayal of this complex hero even more compelling.
In November 2024, Ralph Fiennes was 61 years old, while Russell Crowe was 60. There is only a slight age difference between the two of them, so you can draw your own conclusions. Ralph Fiennes came across as a bit too scrauny for the role, which may have diminished his overall presence and impact on screen.
Ralph Fiennes is a distinguished English actor, producer, and director. He completed his studies at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 1985. Fiennes is celebrated for his interpretations of Shakespeare and has made significant contributions to theatre, performing notably at the Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Recognized as one of the most prominent actors in Britain, he has garnered numerous awards, including a BAFTA and a Tony, as well as nominations for two Academy Awards and an Emmy.
Fiennes stepped into film with a role as Heathcliff in the 1992 adaptation of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights. His critically acclaimed performance as the Nazi officer Amon Göth in Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List (1993) earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and won him a BAFTA for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. His portrayal of Count Almásy in The English Patient (1996) also brought him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
His Greek mythology filmography includes a couple of other roles in movies such as Clash of the Titans (2010) and Wrath of the Titans (2012), where he played Hades.
Notably, Fiennes portrayed the iconic villain Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter film series (2005–2011) and took on the role of Gareth Mallory/M in the James Bond films Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and No Time to Die (2021).
Penelope: Juliette Binoche
“The Return” marks an exciting reunion for Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche, who last graced the screen together over 30 years prior in the iconic Oscar-winning masterpiece “The English Patient” in 1996.
I must admit that I was completely unaware of the actress’s identity while watching “The Return.” It wasn’t until I began crafting this review of The Return that I discovered who she was.
Juliette Binoche, born on March 9, 1964, is a renowned French actress celebrated for her contributions to cinema across both French and English films. With a diverse filmography spanning over 60 titles, she has received a plethora of prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a César Award.
Binoche initially attracted attention through collaborations with acclaimed directors such as Jean-Luc Godard in “Hail Mary” (1985), Jacques Doillon in “Family Life” (1985), and André Téchiné, who propelled her to stardom in France with his film “Rendez-vous” (1985).
Her notable performance as a mourning music composer in Krzysztof Kieślowski’s “Three Colours: Blue” (1993) earned her both the Volpi Cup and the César Award for Best Actress.
She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as a nurse in “The English Patient” (1996) and received an Academy Award nomination for her lead role in the romantic drama “Chocolat” (2000). In 2010, Binoche was awarded Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival for her portrayal of an antiques dealer in Abbas Kiarostami’s “Certified Copy.”
Villains and Suitors: The Return (2024)
One standout performance came from Marwan Kenzari, who portrayed the deeply unlikable Antinous — a character you couldn’t help but detest at first. However, as the story unfolded, Kenzari skillfully revealed layers of vulnerability that ultimately evoked sympathy, leaving viewers conflicted about their feelings towards him.
Marwan Kenzari is a talented Dutch actor from the Netherlands. He launched his acting journey in 2008 and gained significant attention for his performance in the 2013 movie Wolf, which won him a Golden Calf award for Best Actor. Since 2016, Kenzari has made a name for himself in English-language cinema with notable roles in films such as Aladdin (2019), The Old Guard (2020), and Black Adam (2022), propelling him to international fame.
The Return: Film Locations
Filming for “The Return” mainly took place on the Greek island of Corfu and in the Peloponnese region. The cinematic journey commenced in the enchanting landscape of Greece during the vibrant spring of 2023, wrapping up by June 2023. The crew then headed to Italy to bring even more splendor to the film’s visual narrative.
Fiennes remarked that the movie script, drawing from the timeless narrative of the Odyssey, presented no unfamiliar twists for him as he was very familiar with the story since childhood. However, he was challenged by the director’s unique interpretation, which honed in on the hero’s internal battles.
Greek co-producer Kostantinos Kontovrakis played a key role, emphasizing the importance of having a Greek producer involved in a film inspired by the Odyssey. I wonder where this beach scene in “The Return” was filmed?
Ralph Fiennes has mentioned that he has been to the Greek island of Ithaca twice during his extensive journeys throughout Greece. He also described Ithaca as imbued with a powerful energy. He has also enjoyed exploring Greece’s breathtaking Peloponnese region.
Fiennes’s deep admiration for Greece and its rich cultural heritage undoubtedly enriched his portrayal of Odysseus, one of the most iconic heroes in Greek mythology. His appreciation for the country’s beauty and history likely brought out more depth to his interpretation of Odysseus.
This thrilling new Odyssey drama also introduces rising American star Charlie Plummer, celebrated for his performance in “Lean on Pete,” portraying Telemachus — the son of the legendary Odysseus and his beloved Penelope.
The Return (2024): R Rating
One aspect that caught me off guard was the R rating for “The Return.” This may baffle fans of the action genre, particularly those accustomed to high-octane violence paired with milder ratings. While the film certainly boasts intense sequences and explores some mature themes, its narrative structure feels surprisingly familiar, echoing the formulas of many other action films designed to appeal to a broader audience.
As the story unfolds, audiences can expect to witness a considerable amount of bloodshed — especially during the electrifying climax, where Odysseus unleashes his long-awaited vengeance.
But what truly sets “The Return” (1h 56m) movie apart is the unexpected ending, laced with a twist that took me completely by surprise.
I urge you to experience it for yourself. The Return (2024) directed by Uberto Pasolini offers a conclusion that not only satisfies but also leaves you pondering long after the credits roll. Don’t miss out on this captivating ride filled with thrills and revelations!
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