Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There 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 that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online 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 in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
