Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker'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. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is 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 inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
