View the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining 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. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus 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
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
