Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey has not even arrived in cinemas yet, but it has already become one of the most debated films of the year. While fans are eagerly waiting to see the director's ambitious adaptation of Homer's legendary epic, the movie has also found itself at the centre of online arguments — with Elon Musk among its loudest critics.
The Tesla and SpaceX CEO has repeatedly criticised Nolan's creative choices, claiming the filmmaker changed Homer's story to fit what he described as 'woke' Hollywood standards. His latest remarks also brought Tom Holland into the controversy.
Elon Musk Calls Tom Holland a 'Cuck'
Musk's recent comment on X targeted Tom Holland after The Odyssey star defended the people who chose to wait until seeing the film before judging it.
Holland shared a review from The Guardian and wrote on X: 'More praise for The Odyssey from people who — shockingly — have actually waited to see it before giving their opinion.' After another user reposted Holland's message, Musk responded with a personal insult directed at the actor, writing: 'Tom Holland is such a cuck.'
The remark quickly sparked another online debate, with the conversation shifting away from The Odyssey and towards Musk's attack on one of Hollywood's most popular young stars.
The word 'cuck' is a shortened form of 'cuckold,' a term historically used to describe a man whose partner is unfaithful. Online, however, the word has evolved into a political and internet insult often used to suggest someone is weak, submissive or easily controlled.
Tom Holland is such a cuck
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 7, 2026
Fans Rally Behind Holland After Musk's Comment
Many fans pushed back against Musk's comment, arguing that Holland's reputation as a kind and thoughtful person made the insult feel unnecessary.
Others questioned why Musk was spending time criticising an actor over a film debate. Some fans argued that he should focus his attention elsewhere instead of engaging in personal attacks online.
One commenter wrote: 'You've gotta have something better to do with your time dude. Somebody put this dude to work, to produce something.'
Another joked that Musk's online behaviour would eventually be remembered as an example of internet culture. The comment read: 'Elon trolling like a fat guy in his mum's basement will be studied one day.'
Why hate so much on a movie you haven't even seen? Nothing better to do?
— Fred Lambert (@FredLambert) July 7, 2026
You’ve gotta have something better to do with your time dude. Somebody put this dude to work, to produce something rather than taking credit for things other people build in his name.
— Ricky (@SD4SCIII) July 7, 2026
Inside Musk's Clash With Nolan's The Odyssey
Musk's criticism of The Odyssey appears to be linked to his views on Hollywood diversity initiatives and the film's casting choices. He has repeatedly argued that Nolan changed Homer's ancient Greek epic because of what he believes are industry pressures.
A day before his comment about Holland, Musk wrote on X: 'Chris Nolan desecrated Homer and groveled on his knees just to meet the woke rules required to win an Oscar. What a worm.'
He had previously criticised the casting of actors including Lupita Nyong'o and Elliot Page. Musk and other critics questioned whether the casting choices fit a story based on Greek mythology.
Musk has also taken aim at the Academy's inclusion standards, claiming they could affect how filmmakers make creative decisions. However, the Oscar rules do not require films to include a set number of actors from certain backgrounds. Instead, they focus on wider areas such as representation, leadership roles, opportunities in the industry and reaching different audiences.
Chris Nolan desecrated Homer and groveled on his knees just to meet the woke rules required to win an Oscar.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 6, 2026
What a worm.
Why the Film Debate Is Not Over Yet
The controversy surrounding The Odyssey goes beyond Musk's comments. Since the trailer's release, fans have debated whether Nolan's grounded filmmaking style is the right fit for Homer's mythical story.
Some viewers hoped for a more traditional fantasy adventure featuring gods, monsters and magical elements, while others welcomed Nolan's approach to reimagining the ancient epic in a more realistic style.
Despite the backlash, early reactions have been largely positive, with critics praising the film's scale, visuals and performances.
Holland's role as Telemachus, alongside Matt Damon's Odysseus, has also drawn attention as audiences prepare to see Nolan's interpretation of the classic tale.
