View the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, 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 are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio 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
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical titled 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 teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.