The Return Review: A Captivating (If Slow) Epic [TIFF 2024]

As a seasoned gamer and literature enthusiast with a penchant for epic tales, I must say that “The Return” is a refreshing take on one of my all-time favorite stories, The Odyssey. While it may not have been everyone’s cup of tea, this film adaptation has certainly left its mark on me.

Though ‘The Odyssey’ is a cornerstone of Western literature, known for its captivating tales and profound cultural impact, it’s surprising that fewer movie adaptations have been made. Among the rare film versions, none have truly left a mark on cinematic history—the one exception being the Coen Brothers’ comedic take set during the Great Depression, ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’, which is less faithful to the original.

“The Return

If you find this proposed “Odyssey” adaptation less thrilling than expected at the outset, don’t be alarmed. Though it moves slowly, it ultimately proves more captivating than it initially appears. While those who have studied Homer in high school should appreciate it, viewers not as familiar with the original story might find themselves puzzled by the fragmented narrative. However, the exceptional acting of Fiennes and Binoche, combined with the timeless appeal of the classic story, helps “The Return” evolve into a thought-provoking and entertaining production in its climactic scenes.

Great actors carry The Return through its slow opening

Ralph Fiennes portrays Odysseus as a character who possesses immense physical power alongside profound vulnerability. At 61 years old, Fiennes underwent an extensive transformation, beefing up for this role in the manner of a typical Marvel superhero. Throughout the film, his muscular physique is prominently showcased. However, what truly sets Odysseus apart are the numerous scars adorning those muscles – battle wounds that serve as constant reminders of the countless comrades he has lost in war. Upon arriving on Ithaca, Odysseus appears naked and desperate, evoking a sense of vulnerability reminiscent of both Fiennes’ role in “The Return” and Jude Law’s portrayal in “Eden.” This is a hero pushed to the edge, a warrior grappling with the trauma of witnessing the deaths of his fellow soldiers and struggling to find solace in the horrors he has endured. The weight of his sorrow is palpable and deeply felt by viewers.

In a personal perspective as a dedicated fan, I must express that Juliette Binoche’s portrayal of Penelope echoes profound sorrow from the very start. The movie opens with her meticulously weaving a burial shroud, vowing to choose her next husband once she’s completed her mourning rites. Yet, each night, she unravels her own work, yearning to postpone this decision and safeguard her realm. However, Antinous, the most ruthless of the suitors, eventually grows impatient and starts exerting pressure on her.

In essence, this film seems quite contemplative, roughly 70% filled with introspection. It could be incredibly tedious without the involvement of its two principal actors, who are exceptionally gifted and portray these fatigued characters with such depth that the deliberate tempo serves as a prelude to an immensely rewarding finale. The film’s visuals, beautifully captured by Marius Panduru, often on location in Greece, are aesthetically pleasing – and the ensemble cast adds to the visual appeal typical of historical epics set in ancient Rome.

Odysseus’ war comes home

The moment when “The Return” truly resonated with me occurred as the housekeeper Eurycleia (Ángela Molina) realized from Odysseus’ scars that the old beggar she was aiding was none other than her king. Not everyone who Odysseus reunites with is overjoyed to see him – his son Telemachus (Charlie Plummer) now finds him repulsive; however, the pure joy displayed on Eurycleia’s face is heartwarming and impactful. This demonstrates that Odysseus’ hardships have not been in vain, and it marks the beginning of transition from brooding to catharsis.

As Odysseus prepares for his emotional reunion with Penelope, the test of the arrow and the elimination of the suitors unfold in a way that is both captivating and breathtaking. The feelings run deep, the tension mounts, and the displays of power feel truly deserved after all the sorrow and hardships endured beforehand. Even in this intensely dramatic story, there are moments that manage to bring a smile or two to the audience’s faces.

In an interview following the TIFF screening, Uberto Pasolini explained that a significant portion of the screenplay (jointly written with John Collee and Edward Bond) was influenced by interviews with Vietnam War veterans. He also hinted at the story’s contemporary relevance to ongoing conflicts worldwide. The Odyssey continues to resonate because of its timeless nature, and by focusing on the epic’s ending to delve into PTSD and returning home from war trauma, this adaptation offers a unique angle. Admittedly, I felt it moved too slowly at times and wished for a faster pace leading up to its climax. However, after watching The Return, I found myself appreciating its achievement, despite not being able to fully embrace it.

As an eager cinema enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement to share that the long-awaited movie “The Return” made its grand debut at the prestigious 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. Mark your calendars, fellow movie lovers, because we won’t have to wait much longer; it hits the big screens on December 6, 2024!

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2024-09-13 21:00