View Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus 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. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.