Watch the Director's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.

The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.

The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble

This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, 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 in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.

Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup

On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.

This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.

A Tale of Many Adaptations

Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.

A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found 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 is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.

Wesley Morse
Wesley Morse

Maya Chen is a tech journalist and AI researcher with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.