Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic 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 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—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.