See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer 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 ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse 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. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with 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 called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
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.
