Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from 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, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, 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.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio 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 to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
