View the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.