Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. 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 will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
