See the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, 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, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are 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 inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.