Elon Musk’s long-promised artificial intelligence adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey has finally arrived — and the internet’s verdict is nearly unanimous. The first episode of the Grok Imagine series, released Friday on X, drew widespread mockery for its jarring visuals, stilted dialogue and questionable historical accuracy, offering a stark contrast to Christopher Nolan’s big-budget epic still dominating theaters.
A Promise Born From Criticism
The project traces back to this summer, when Musk publicly attacked Nolan’s film, accusing the director of having “desecrated the Odyssey to be eligible for an Oscar” by casting Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy. The billionaire vowed to produce his own version using Grok, his generative AI tool, in collaboration with Wonder Studios and AI-focused director Dev Walker.
In July, Musk pledged on X to deliver “a historically accurate version of the Odyssey, faithful to Homer’s artistic vision” by the end of 2026.
An Opening Episode Under Fire
The premiere installment depicts Odysseus’s departure from Ithaca, leaving behind Penelope and the infant Telemachus, before the Greek ships arrive beneath the walls of Troy. Grok’s official account invited users to comment on the production methods and share their reactions. Critics did not hold back.
- “My God, it’s completely crap… just as expected,” wrote one Belgian YouTuber.
- “This perfectly reflects Elon Musk’s tastes. It’s absolutely rotten,” added another user.
- “This is what you call a very expensive turkey,” joked a third.
Many viewers highlighted the characters’ blurred gazes, jerky movements and unmistakably synthetic voices. Others imagined Nolan’s amused reaction upon seeing the footage.
Historical Slips Undermine Accuracy Claims
Several users seized on the very “historical errors” Musk had promised to correct. “Why are they speaking English?” one commenter asked, while others flagged ships resembling Viking vessels and landscapes and costumes that “make you think you’re in Scotland.”
It remains unclear when Grok will release subsequent episodes. Meanwhile, Nolan’s Odyssey — starring Anne Hathaway, Matt Damon and Tom Holland — continues its march toward the Academy Awards, having grossed more than $1.5 billion to become Universal Studios’ biggest success to date.
