Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated 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 the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to 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 on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. 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
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown 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 might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
