Watch the Director's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings 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 footage later made its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
