Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' trailer becomes one of the director’s most disliked on YouTube

The Odyssey may be one of the year’s most anticipated movies, but its first trailer has also sparked an intense backlash online.

The debut trailer for Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic has become one of the most disliked videos associated with the filmmaker on YouTube. The reaction follows weeks of controversy surrounding casting rumors, historical accuracy debates and criticism from some corners of the internet.

A major source of the backlash has been speculation surrounding Elliot Page potentially appearing in the film. Rumors spread online after fans began theorisng that Page could be playing Achilles based on brief trailer footage and production clues. Although the casting has not been confirmed, the speculation triggered heated reactions across social media, particularly among anti-“woke Hollywood” commentators. 

The trailer has also faced criticism from viewers questioning Nolan’s interpretation of Homer’s epic poem, with some fans arguing the footage looked too modern or visually similar to previous fantasy and historical blockbusters.

Despite the online negativity, many fans defended the trailer and praised Nolan’s ambitious scale, cinematography and cast. The film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside a large ensemble that includes Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson.

The strong response to the teaser has not slowed interest in the project. In fact, the controversy appears to have amplified online discussion around the movie, making it one of the most talked-about upcoming releases of 2026.

Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey is scheduled to hit theaters on July 17, 2026.