See Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting 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, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. 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 seen many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It 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 subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
