Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film 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, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question 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 in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are 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 inspired many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
