Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.

The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. 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 by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.

The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast

The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.

Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.

Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast

On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.

This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. 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

The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.

The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.

To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.

The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.