Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
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 following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online 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.
