Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting 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, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks 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, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
