See the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, 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 in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, 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 are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is 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 are 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 seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical 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 brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.
