Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, 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, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress 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.
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 inspired many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser 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.