View the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.

Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.

The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble

This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow 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, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.

Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.

Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast

Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything 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 Story Repeatedly Told

The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.

A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way online shortly thereafter.

To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.

The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.