Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting 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—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and 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 occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
