Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie 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 by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is 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 many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
