Watch the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, 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 lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
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 Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited 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 trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
