See Christopher Nolan's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Was Never Intended 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 among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. 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 of the Stellar Ensemble

This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.

Adapted from a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, 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, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.

Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast

Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.

The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 Story Repeatedly Told

Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There 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 short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.

For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.


The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.

Kimberly Long
Kimberly Long

Alex Thornton is the founding director of Local Studio, with over 20 years of experience in community-led design and sustainable architecture.