See the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. 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.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. 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.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. 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 following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.
