‘The Odyssey’ trailer: Christopher Nolan’s traces Matt Damon’s relentless journey home

Universal has unveiled the first official trailer for The Odyssey , Nolan’s follow-up to Oppenheimer and one of 2026’s most anticipated theatrical releases. The film retells the story of Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War, facing shipwrecks, mythical creatures and relentless danger along the way. The footage highlights sequences of Odysseus and his army caught in violent storms, stranded across unforgiving terrain and navigating the legendary Trojan Horse strategy. The trailer also teases the scale of the production, featuring vast locations, intense practical action and a glimpse of the cyclops Polyphemus lurking within shadowed caves. Alongside Damon, the ensemble cast includes Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Lupita Nyong’o, Charlize Theron, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, John Leguizamo and more. The teaser briefly showcases Holland as Telemachus and Hathaway as Penelope, signalling the emotional core driving Odysseus’ return home. Universal has previously confirmed that The Odyssey is shot entirely using new IMAX film technology, continuing Nolan’s push for large-format theatrical filmmaking. The director wrote and produced the film alongside Emma Thomas, with filming taking place across several global locations to capture the vast geography of Odysseus’ journey. Nolan’s last release, Oppenheimer , won seven Academy Awards in 2024, setting high expectations for this latest project. With mythology, large-scale action and a star-studded cast, The Odyssey is positioned as a major cinematic event for 2026. The Odyssey releases in theatres on July 17, 2026. Published - December 23, 2025 12:26 pm IST

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