🔗 Share this article Watch the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing. The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, 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. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences. The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey. Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland. Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son on his home island. This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with 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 contemporary versions 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. A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown 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 is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide next summer.