View Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
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, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encodingâmaybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
