View the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.

Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.

A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble

The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.

Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.

Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup

Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.

The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside 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. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.

The official trailer was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.

For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.


The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.

Kristi Sherman
Kristi Sherman

A tech journalist and innovation strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies across Europe.