See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant 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 as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of 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 look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, 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 lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled 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 subsequently found its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
