O Brother, Where Art Thou

After cult classic comedy, “The Big Lebowski” came out in 1998, the Coen Brothers worked on their next project. A loose retelling of “The Odyssey” titled, “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” Set in the southern states during the Great Depression three escaped convicts, Everett, Pete & Delmar search for treasure while running from the law. Hilarity and surrealism ensues. Released in 2000, (same year Almost Famous came out) it received critical acclaim from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to huge praise, the film was a commercial hit. O, Brother Where Art Thou? was nominated for two Oscars. However, it won nothing.

Anyway, Christopher Nolan’s interpretation of The Odyssey is almost out. Before I see one of my highly anticipated films of 2026, I wanna share my opinion on this Coen Brothers classic. I can’t wait to see Mr. Nolan’s fantasy adventure epic. It’s around my birth month.

Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever.

Rich & Poor Qualities

Rich: George Clooney, John Turturro & Tim Blake Nelson all did a fantastic job for their respective performances.

Other Cast Members such as John Goodman, Holly Hunter & Stephen Root all did a decent job for their respective performances.

The Coen Brothers did a great job retelling The Odyssey with their own interpretation.

Jokes are legitimately funny filled with well written dialogue and surreal moments. Ten times funnier than these unfunny comedies from 2000.

Isn’t She Great
The Next Big Thing
Drowning Mona
The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas
The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle
Scary Movie
Thomas and the Magic Railroad
102 Dalmatians
Air Bud: World Pup
Dude, Where’s My Car?

Cinematography’s shot by Oscar winning cameraman, Roger Deakins. Same guy who shot “Skyfall” and “Blade Runner 2049.” O Brother, Where Art Thou? has a slight sepia filter to mimic old school films.

Chemistry between Everett, Pete & Delmar serves as the main highlight. Unlike most buddy comedies, there’s no “temporary break-up.” A breath of fresh air.

Costumes and Set Pieces were crafted by decorators.

Pacing didn’t feel like a drab. Opening Scene establishes the plot’s already in motion.

Coen Brothers mentioned the film’s influenced by “The Wizard of Oz,” “Cool Hand Luke” “Lawrence of Arabia” & The Three Stooges.

For those who already read The Odyssey, you know how it ends.

Although there are no spectacular effects bringing Greek gods to life. Real actors play characters loosely based on creature. For example John Goodman’s character wears an eyepatch intended to be represent the Cyclops.

Fun Facts

The film’s title is a reference to Preston Sturges’ “Sullivan’s Travels.” Heck, there’s a Simpson episode also called O Brother, Where Art Thou that aired in 1991 when Danny DeVito guest starred as Homer’s half-brother, Herb Powell.
Coen Brothers admit they never read Homer’s The Odyssey. They saw “Ulysses” starring Kirk Douglas.
Everett’s child home is the exact same cabin from “The Evil Dead.” Coen Brothers are good friends with Sam Raimi.

Random Thought: The trio remind me of “Ed, Edd n’ Eddy.” They kinda have similar personalities like the animated trio.

Poor: Remember that one scene with the trio performing as the Soggy Bottom Boys? George Clooney isn’t a good singer in real life. His voice was dubbed. I have subtract a point down. He pulled a Milli Vanilli. Not taking singling lessons and having somebody dub your voice is cheating.

The Final Verdict: A-

Despite one drawback, O Brother, Where Art Thou? is an entertaining loose adaptation of The Odyssey. If you’re stoked to see Christopher Nolan’s interpretation, check out the Coen Brothers’ classic. It would be nice if the Criterion Collection includes it as a 4K upgrade on DVD/Blu-Ray.