Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks 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 by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are 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 seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.