View the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers 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 cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. 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 reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled 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 only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, 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.