See Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
