The Odyssey accused of dumping plastics
While on-screen the IMAX film is quite the spectacle, the sets it left behind tell a different story.
The Island of Lipari was chosen by the director for the lair of the Sirens for The Odyssey (2026), beasts that lure men to their deaths. The Island of Lipari in Italy is the largest of the Aeolian archipelago, which lies just outside Sicily, and is home to 12,000 Sicilians. It’s known for its natural beauty, from the coastline to volcanic wonders, and its rich cultural history. Because of that, the area has always welcomed filmmakers and tourists with open arms, with the hope that respect would go both ways. When filming one of the film’s most important scenes, Nolan might have inadvertently broken that trust.
As first reported in the Italian Insider in September of last year, months after filming at that location had wrapped, several divers in the area found plastic remains of skeletons and armor on the seabed where filming took place. The area is a protected marine habitat, and any disturbance could threaten its natural beauty and wildlife. Locals are very protective of the land and sea around them, especially after a film crew accidentally burned down over 10 acres of farmland a couple of years before. Tragedies like that are what the ARPA (Agenzia regionale per la protezione ambientale, or Regional Environmental Protection Agency) seeks to curb through regulations, permits, and restrictions.
When asked about it in September of last year, Giusi Savarino, the regional environmental councilor, said, “The findings of recent days are a cause for great concern, and for this reason, with ARPA, we will intervene to ascertain the potential impact of the materials on the habitat and marine species of this area of significant naturalistic value. We are happy to host international film projects and are always available to facilitate these productions, but no one thinks they can abuse our generosity by disrespecting our natural beauty,” He then added, saying, “No one should think they can take advantage of our hospitality by disrespecting our natural treasures”
A report and investigation were requested of Savarino to determine the extent of the interference done to the Pietra del Bagno seabed and the surrounding marine ecosystem. If harm is found, members of the production could face criminal prosecution in the area. As of now, the results of the investigation have not been made public. It’s not known whether Nolan has acknowledged the backlash from the locals, or even if he is aware of it. The film was shot in Lipari in April of last year, with filming wrapping there later that month. The Odyssey is set to become Christopher Nolan‘s most successful and acclaimed film yet.
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