Christopher Nolan's highly-anticipated adaptation of ancient Greek poet Homer's epic "The Odyssey" has sparked debate for months before audiences even had the chance to see it.From criticism over casting choices and historical accuracy to backlash over the 55-year-old Oscar-winning director's own comments dismissing critics, the fantasy action-adventure has found itself at the center of multiple controversies ahead of its theatrical debut.With a production budget of $250 million and marketing costs totaling an estimated $125 million, "The Odyssey" is one of the most expensive R-rated movies ever made.Box office analysts have estimated that the film will have to gross over $700 million globally to turn a profit for its studio, Universal.‘ODYSSEY' STARS ZENDAYA, ANNE HATHAWAY AND MATT DAMON TURN HEADS AS DIRECTOR CHRISTOPHER NOLAN FACES BACKLASHWhile "The Odyssey's" controversies have dominated social media and entertainment news headlines, brand experts and box office analysts told Fox News Digital they do not expect the pre-release scrutiny to derail the movie's commercial prospects, with some arguing that it could have the opposite effect.Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" sparked controversy for months before landing in theaters.
(Aalok Soni/Getty Images for Universal Pictures; Melinda Sue Gordon Universal Studios)Here's a look at everything Nolan has taken heat for ahead of "The Odyssey's" release.The film sparked debate over several casting choices including Lupita Nyong'o as Helen of Troy. (Scott A Garfitt / AP)"The Odyssey" features a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Robert Pattinson, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal and Lupita Nyong’o.Despite its lineup of A-listers and many previous awards recipients, Nolan faced backlash over several casting decisions.Much of the criticism came from his choice to cast Nyong'o as Helen of Troy, as Homer describes the character as having "white arms" in the poem.Social media ...