Presentation and Discussion of Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey”

Join Catholic University of America’s “The Ancient World in Cinema” professor, Dr. William McCarthy, for a presentation and discussion of Hollywood Director Christopher Nolan’s highest-grossing film of all time, The Odyssey, on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM EDT.

Dr. McCarthy will consider Nolan’s skill and artistry as a filmmaker, with particular attention to the talents evident in earlier films such as Interstellar. The presentation will also offer a measured critique of Nolan’s approach to The Odyssey, including his decision to omit a key element of Homer’s epic. The CIC’s Director of Development Ryan O’Connell, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Classics with a concentration in Ancient Greek from the University of Virginia, will moderate the discussion.

Please note the CIC will not screen the film as part of the program.

Register to attend either in person or virtually through a livestream. Copies of Homer’s Odyssey, translated by Robert Fagles, will be available for purchase at the CIC bookstore.

9/3/26 Schedule:

• 5:45 pm: Doors open for registrant check-in
• 6:00 pm: Presentation by Dr. McCarthy on Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey (this portion of the evening will be offered in-person and virtually)
• 6:40 pm: Q&A session moderated by Ryan O’Connell
• 7:00 pm: Happy (Half) Hour
• 7:30 pm: Evening Concludes

RSVP today!