See the Director's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, 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.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
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. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
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
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
