See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress 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 is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, 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 throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There 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 short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.