Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie 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 preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking 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 during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide next summer.
