🔗 Share this article Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen. Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie 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 preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating 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 portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides 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 of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey 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. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island. This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Tale of Many Adaptations 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 titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series. A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.