View Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying 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, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive 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 are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There 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 was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
