Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. 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 the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside 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 and a late-90s dance production. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
