놀런 “오디세이는 궁극의 강아지 영화”…각본 가제는 반려견 ‘찰리 이야기’

The movie "Odyssey," directed by Christopher Nolan, is described as the ultimate dog film. This cinematic achievement was made possible by the influence of a companion animal, a Lhasa Apso named Charlie. Nolan, who recently welcomed a dog into his life, felt that the experience enhanced his ability to create this groundbreaking film.

The story follows the epic journey of Odysseus, an ancient Greek hero, as he returns home after the Trojan War. This journey spans ten years, during which Odysseus faces numerous challenges. In the film, Nolan introduces the audience to Odysseus' loyal hunting dog, Argos, who recognizes his master for the first time in twenty years. This poignant moment is depicted accurately from the original source material.

Nolan revealed in a recent interview with Hollywood Reporter that he and his children adopted Charlie after moving frequently during their college years, making it difficult to care for pets. The dog's presence during production allowed Nolan to develop the screenplay more effectively, resulting in the creation of "Charlie's Tale."

The film takes audiences on a journey through the aftermath of the Trojan War, exploring the emotional and psychological impact of war trauma and military violence. While remaining faithful to the original source material, it offers a modern interpretation of the hero's return.

The movie opens with a series of scenes involving Odysseus selecting his hunting dogs, including the newborn puppies that are thrown off cliffs. This brutal scene was intentionally depicted to provide viewers with a clear understanding of the harsh world in which the characters reside. After Argos' return, the film reaches a touching reunion between the dog and his former owner, culminating in Argos' death.

Interestingly, the Argos character was played by a modern breed of dog known as the Portuguese Podengo, which has a history dating back thousands of years. These ancient dogs were originally bred for rabbit hunting in the Mediterranean region, and their portrayal in the movie reflects their status as loyal companions in ancient Greek society.

Research conducted by Dr. Susan Phillip of the University of New South Wales supports the idea that dogs played a significant role in ancient Greek culture. In her article published in the academic journal "The Conversation," Dr. Phillip explains that Odysseus' dog, Argos, represents the deep bond between ancient Greeks and their canine companions.

She also highlights similar instances of canine loyalty in other works by Homer, such as "The Iliad," where Achilles' friend Patroclus is mourned with a tearful speech from Achilles himself.