Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film 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
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son 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 Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
