See Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. 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 over the years. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.
