Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
