Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
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 Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
