Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, 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 during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.
