🔗 Share this article See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage. Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home. Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son on his home island. The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, 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. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.