Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
