Troy is based on the epic poem the Iliad by Homer, according to the credits. Homer's estate should sue

Troy is based on the epic poem the Iliad by Homer, according to the credits. Homer's estate should sue

In the 2004 film "Troy," directed by Wolfgang Petersen, the opening credits state that the movie is based on the epic poem "The Iliad" by Homer. However, many critics, including the late Roger Ebert, have pointed out that the film takes significant liberties with the source material, deviating from the original text in several key ways. Ebert, a renowned film critic known for his insightful reviews and sharp wit, would likely have had strong opinions on the matter.

One of the most glaring departures from the original poem is the portrayal of the character Achilles, played by Brad Pitt in the film. In "The Iliad," Achilles is a complex and morally ambiguous figure, torn between his desire for glory and his sense of honor. However, in "Troy," Achilles is portrayed as a more straightforward hero, motivated primarily by revenge and personal glory. This oversimplification of Achilles' character is just one example of the film's departure from Homer's nuanced storytelling.

Another major departure from the source material is the omission of the gods and goddesses who play a significant role in "The Iliad." In Homer's epic, the gods intervene in the affairs of mortals, shaping the course of the Trojan War and influencing the actions of the characters. In "Troy," however, the supernatural elements are largely absent, with the focus instead on the human drama of the war. This decision to downplay the role of the gods in the story is a significant departure from Homer's original vision.

Given these and other deviations from the source material, it is not surprising that some critics have questioned the accuracy of the film's claim to be based on "The Iliad." Homer's estate, if such a thing existed, might indeed have grounds to sue for misrepresentation of the source material. Ebert, with his keen eye for detail and deep appreciation for literature, would likely have been among those who felt that the film did a disservice to Homer's epic poem.