Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
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 preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
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 titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.
