Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
The official trailer was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
