Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. 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 encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey 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 mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway 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 seen numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way online soon after.
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.