Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast 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. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
