See the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits 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 the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, 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.
