🔗 Share this article See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. 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 brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage. Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland. Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son on his home island. The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Story Repeatedly Told Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series. A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after. To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.