Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers 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 of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows 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 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
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated 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 preview available via the movie's verified account might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
