Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and 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. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 seen many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
