View the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, 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. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
