Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film 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 due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, 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. Examples include contemporary versions 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 was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.
