Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, 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 preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
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, 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 are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
