🔗 Share this article Watch Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing. Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey. Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home. Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca. This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. 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 Tale of Many Adaptations Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series. A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter. For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.