Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look 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, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
