The Odyssey Tapes 1988
Jill Godmilow's *The Odyssey Tapes (1988)* captures a unique creative journey as concert artist Richard Dyer-Bennet wrestles with Homer's *Odyssey*—not as a static text, but as a living, breathing performance.
Director: Jill Godmilow
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Odyssey Tapes (1988) about?
*The Odyssey Tapes* follows concert artist Richard Dyer-Bennet as he works to adapt Homer's *Odyssey* into a live English-language performance. Using his harp, he transforms the ancient epic from an oral tradition into a modern musical storytelling experience.
Who directed The Odyssey Tapes?
*The Odyssey Tapes* was directed by Jill Godmilow, a filmmaker known for her innovative and thought-provoking documentaries.
Who stars in The Odyssey Tapes?
The film stars Richard Dyer-Bennet, a celebrated concert artist and harpist, who takes center stage as both performer and subject.
Is The Odyssey Tapes (1988) worth watching?
While short and unrated, *The Odyssey Tapes* offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of adapting a monumental work. Its focus on oral tradition and performance art makes it a niche but rewarding watch for literature and music enthusiasts.
How long is The Odyssey Tapes?
The Odyssey Tapes runs approximately 30 minutes.
The Odyssey Tapes (1988): Jill Godmilow's Unique Take on Homer's Epic — Full Movie Info
Jill Godmilow's *The Odyssey Tapes (1988)* captures a unique creative journey as concert artist Richard Dyer-Bennet wrestles with Homer's *Odyssey*—not as a static text, but as a living, breathing performance. Shot in 1978 with Dyer-Bennet at his harp, the film explores how an epic poem, once an oral tradition sung for entertainment and cultural memory, could be reimagined in English for modern audiences. The atmosphere is intimate and cerebral, a quiet studio setting where artistry meets intellectual curiosity. Through Dyer-Bennet's process, the 30-minute documentary becomes a meditation on storytelling, memory, and the power of voice.
The film offers a rare glimpse into the intersection of classical literature and performance art, where a single artist grapples with a 24-hour poem's scale and emotional depth. Godmilow's direction frames Dyer-Bennet's struggle as both personal and universal, making *The Odyssey Tapes* a compelling study of tradition, adaptation, and the enduring allure of Homer's timeless tale.