🔗 Share this article See the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing. Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas. The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey. Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home. Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca. This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio is 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 numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.