See the Director's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, 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 Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It 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 short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.