Sales of Homer's works surge in Russia after release of Nolan's 'Odyssey'

MOSCOW — Sales of Homer's "Odyssey" rose 198% in Russia compared with summer 2025, while overall sales of the ancient Greek poet's works climbed 125%, according to Aleksandr Brichkin, general director of the Chitai-Gorod bookstore chain. Brichkin attributed the increase to the release of Christopher Nolan's film adaptation of the "Odyssey," which follows King Odysseus of Ithaca on his journey home to his wife Penelope after the Trojan War. The film stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron. The renewed interest has extended beyond Russia. Britain's The Times reported that "Odyssey" sales in the country rose 70% this year, while Google searches for learning Greek surged 550% following the film's release. Homer's ancient epic has drawn fresh international attention since the film opened in theaters, according to the reports.