New Trailer Highlights Strong Dad Game Vibes in The Odyssey

Christopher Nolan’s grand adaptation of Homer’s *The Odyssey* is just around the corner, and we’re finally getting a fresh glimpse at this eagerly awaited film. Recently, Nolan surprised *The Late Show* host and *Lord of the Rings* enthusiast Stephen Colbert by unveiling the latest trailer for *The Odyssey* as a late-night exclusive.

This new trailer cranks up the intensity and visual flair compared to earlier teasers. On the dramatic front, we see several scenes unfolding back home while Odysseus (played by Matt Damon) struggles to return. Robert Pattinson makes a striking impression as Antinous, a menacing suitor vying for Penelope’s (Anne Hathaway) affection, attempting to pressure both her and Odysseus’ son, Telemachus (Tom Holland), into accepting that Odysseus is gone for good. We also catch our first look at Charlize Theron as the nymph Calypso, engaging in a conversation with a seemingly forgetful Odysseus about his past.

On the spectacle side, the trailer showcases breathtaking shots of the giant cyclops Polyphemus, along with a classic Nolan moment featuring a tower engulfed in flames during Odysseus’ assault on Troy. There’s a thrilling forest battle reminiscent of *Lord of the Rings*, where Odysseus faces off against terrifying giant armored warriors, likely Nolan’s interpretation of the cannibalistic Laestrygonians. A menacing whirlpool makes an appearance, and we even get a fleeting glimpse of an adorably cute puppy.

Thematically, the film resonates with a familiar gaming vibe. While Odysseus and Telemachus aren’t embarking on their journey together like Joel and Ellie or Kratos and Atreus, Damon’s portrayal of Odysseus evokes the image of a determined, rugged hero from recent blockbuster games—a middle-aged man with a fierce desire to reunite with his family. “No one can stand between me and home,” he declares in the trailer. “Not even the gods.”

Homer’s *The Odyssey* chronicles the legendary king of Ithaca, Odysseus, as he navigates a treacherous journey home following his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in *The Iliad*. Throughout his adventure, Odysseus faces numerous challenges and mythical creatures, including the cyclops Polyphemus, Circe—the witch-goddess who transforms men into pigs—and the beguiling Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus is resolute in his quest to return to Ithaca and reunite with his wife Penelope and son Telemachus.

Joining Damon, Holland, Hathaway, Theron, and Pattinson in *The Odyssey* are Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Elliot Page, Jon Bernthal, Mia Goth, John Leguizamo, Benny Safdie, and Logan Marshall-Green.

After keeping the initial trailer exclusive to theaters for several months, fans finally got a sneak peek at the film last December. That trailer highlighted Odysseus’ journey across land and sea, including his time inside the Trojan Horse, while also teasing the mythological elements with a glimpse of Polyphemus.

*The Odyssey* marks Nolan’s first directorial effort since 2023’s *Oppenheimer*. The film was shot entirely using IMAX’s 70 mm film cameras and is the first to utilize IMAX’s new Keighley camera, named in honor of the late David Keighley, IMAX’s first Chief Quality Officer, and his wife, Patricia Keighley, who is currently IMAX’s Chief Quality Guru.

Some tickets are already being resold at staggering prices.