🔗 Share this article Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing. Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise 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 foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home. Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca. This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are 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 over the years. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.