Charlize Theron as Calypso
Odysseus spends seven of his 10 years away trapped on the island Ogygia where he’s a captive of the nymph Calypso. Calypso wants Odysseus as her husband, offering him immortality as a reward.
Charlize Theron has played her share of determined and complicated characters, whether it be a human train wreck in Young Adult, an immortal vigilante in The Old Guard, or the Imperator Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road. In each of these cases, her hard stare and cutting remarks belie a deep vulnerability. Homer presents Calypso as a tragic figure, someone almost bound by her desire for Odysseus. She knows that he will never love her as much as he does Penelope, but she accepts that, as long as she can have him as a husband.
Lupita Nyong’o as Circe
Where Calypso fails Circe succeeds. After transforming his men into swine, the witch Circe manages to keep Odysseus with her for a year. Even though he claims to be steadfast in his love for Penelope, Odysseus cannot resist Circe’s beauty or the abundance of her home. Tired of fighting, he gives in to her.
Lupita Nyong’o is easily one of the most versatile actors working today, as seen in her triumphant dual performance in Jordan Peele‘s Us, strong voice acting turns in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Wild Robot, and her Academy Award-winning work in 12 Years a Slave. Nyong’o knows how to transform herself for the occasion, sometimes using her beauty and intelligence to project an ethereal quality and sometimes bringing raw physicality to her characters. This range makes her the perfect choice to portray a sorceress who beguiles the hero.
Zendaya as Athena
Okay, yes, Zendaya is a bit young to play such a powerful goddess. But, come one, Athena’s a Goddess—exactly how old should she look?
More importantly, Zendaya’s proven herself adept at playing wise beyond her years and slight frame. Just look at Dune: Part Two and Challengers from earlier in this year where she brought rage and ambition to characters seen as just a pretty face by the men around them. Zeus’ daughter, Athena is Odysseus’ patron on Mount Olympus. She helps throughout his battles and sends other gods, such as Hermes, to intercede on his behalf. Furthermore, she also has an eye for Telemachus, giving a treat for celebrity gossip fans when they see Zendaya and Tom Holland share the screen again.
