Watch Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits 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.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes 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, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.
