Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, 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
The debut footage showcases 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 Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. 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 reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.
