See Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found 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 on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
