Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker'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 trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying 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 her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, 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.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of 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 exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
