Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited 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 the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look 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 chronicles the epic journey 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.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
