View the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast 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 Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way online 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 on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
