The Return of a Classic Tale
Some people would say that my wardrobe and Shireen’s shoe collection are both pretty epic. But if we’re talking about historical epics, we gotta throw it waaaaay back like all the way to ancient Greece. "The Return" is putting its own spin on a classic tale. Take a look.
A New Perspective on an Ancient Story
It’s a story of epic proportions. But forget everything you think you know about Homer’s "Odyssey." "The Return" is saying goodbye to all the mythological elements of this ancient poem and saying hello to all the humanity in it. That’s a-OK with Ralph Fiennes.
Ralph Fiennes on the Stripped-Down Approach
Ralph Fiennes: "It’s the stripped downness of it is what always drew me to it"
He plays a worn-out Odysseus, who finally makes it back home after 20 years.
Humanity in the Story
And while the story may be thousands of years old. Ralph Fiennes: "It’s about family. It’s about a woman surviving the pressures of being surrounded by aggressive men. I mean, I think about the male impetus to go to war, to fight, to destroy."
Timeless Themes
The themes in the film are timeless.
Ralph Fiennes: "Ultimately, it’s people. It’s raw. It’s the rawness, the essence between people and that’s why we go to myths, I think."
Raw Emotions
Raw emotions are definitely something Odysseus’ wife, Penelope, deals with throughout the film. Just ask Juliette Binoche!
Juliette Binoche on Her Role
Juliette Binoche: "She’s hoping that he’s gonna come home and at the same time, in that hope, you have the despair because you never know."
Breaking Stereotypes
Juliette’s also grateful she got to break some stereotypes in this role.
Juliette Binoche: "Penelope, in most of the time, she’s seen as this waiting saint, you know. Perfect woman, perfect wife, waiting for the husband to come back. But of course, it’s more complex than that."
The Psychology of Human Relationships
Ralph Fiennes: "It’s an ancient world, but the psychologies between people, I hope the audiences identify with."
Conclusion
In "The Return," a classic tale is reimagined with a focus on humanity and raw emotions. The film’s timeless themes and complex characters make it a must-see.
FAQs
Q: What is "The Return" about?
A: "The Return" is a new take on Homer’s ancient poem "The Odyssey," focusing on the humanity and emotions of the characters rather than mythological elements.
Q: Who plays Odysseus?
A: Ralph Fiennes plays the role of Odysseus in "The Return."
Q: What is Juliette Binoche’s role in the film?
A: Juliette Binoche plays the role of Penelope, Odysseus’ wife, in "The Return."
Q: Are the themes in the film timeless?
A: Yes, the themes in "The Return" are timeless, exploring complex human relationships and emotions.
