See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. 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
Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.