Homer vs. Nolan: Who Got The Odyssey Right? | Live Lecture + Standup Comedy

Explore the timeless story of Odysseus and how one of the greatest epics ever told continues to inspire modern storytelling. What happens when a filmmaker reimagines one of the most influential stories ever told? And when the original itself leaves so much open to interpretation, is there really one right way to tell it? Homer’s Odyssey is full of complicated characters, uncertain motives, and stories that blur the line between truth and deception. Odysseus recounts extraordinary adventures involving the Cyclops and Circe, only to return home disguised as a beggar and invent much more believable tales of his travels. In this epic, the unbelievable can be true, and the believable can be a lie. Professor Jonathan Burgess has spent much of his career studying Homer and the many stories inspired by ancient epic. A Professor Emeritus of Classics at the University of Toronto, he is also the author of The Travels of Odysseus, published by Oxford University Press in 2025. On November 14th, Jonathan joins us at Laugh & Learn to revisit Homer’s original, explore how it compares with Christopher Nolan’s film adaptation, and look at how modern writers and filmmakers have reinterpreted the epic over time. Here’s how the night works: First → stand-up comedy to warm up the room Then → Jonathan takes the stage for a fascinating live lecture followed by audience Q&A. What you’ll actually learn: * The major characters, themes, and key episodes of Homer’s Odyssey * How Odysseus narrates his travels and why his stories complicate the question of what’s true * How Christopher Nolan’s film interprets and adapts Homer’s original * How modern writers and filmmakers have reinterpreted the epic across different genres This is for you if: * You’re curious about Christopher Nolan’s take on The Odyssey * You love Greek mythology, ancient literature, or modern film adaptations * You’re interested in unreliable narrators, hidden motives, and stories that leave room for debate * You want a night that’s genuinely funny and gives you something interesting to think about afterwards Details: 📍 Venue: Ace of Spades Lounge and Events, Toronto 📅 Saturday, November 21st 🕖 Doors 6:30 PM | Show 7 PM ⚠️ Small intimate venue. We regularly sell out. Once seats are gone, that’s it. Book your spot before it fills up.