🔗 Share this article See the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen. Christopher Nolan's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating why Nolan initially kept the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey. Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous road home. Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island. This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Tale of Many Adaptations The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.