Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, 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
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called 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 brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
