View the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks 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—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress 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 get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble 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. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. 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 will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
