See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie 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 preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include 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 reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
