Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress 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 on his home island.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It 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 was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
