🔗 Share this article Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing. Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences. The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage. Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home. Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, 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. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Story Repeatedly Told Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series. The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way online soon after. To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.