Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. 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 by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. 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 on global IMAX screens next summer.
