See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside 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 called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet 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 in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
