Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals 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, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings 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 since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
