Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. 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 Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.