Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. 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.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way online soon after.
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 on July 17, 2026.
