Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.

Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.

A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble

The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.

Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.

Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup

On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.

This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.

A Story Repeatedly Told

The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.

The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.

For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look.


The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.

Melissa Randall
Melissa Randall

Elena Voss is an energy analyst and writer focusing on renewable solutions.