Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey' Trailer Unveils Epic Scope and Star-Studded Cast

The initial official teaser trailer for Christopher Nolan’s forthcoming film, ‘Odyssey,’ has premiered, immediately confirming the director’s ambitious vision for adapting Homer’s ancient Greek epic. This cinematic undertaking chronicles the arduous, decade-long journey of Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, as he strives to return home following the conclusion of the Trojan War. The narrative promises intense encounters with legendary figures, including the Cyclops Polyphemus, the enchanting Sirens, and the powerful sorceress Circe. Universal Pictures has officially slated the worldwide debut of this massive production for July 17, 2026.

Nolan commenced writing the screenplay for ‘Odyssey’ in March 2024, leading to extensive global principal photography throughout 2025. The production spanned diverse and challenging locales, encompassing Morocco, Greece, Italy, Scotland, Iceland, and the Western Sahara. Clocking in at two minutes, the teaser trailer powerfully conveys the colossal scale of the endeavor, highlighting a significant technical milestone: this marks Nolan’s first feature entirely shot using 70mm IMAX cameras, necessitating the use of over two million feet of film stock. With an estimated budget reaching $250 million, this project stands as the most expensive film of the director’s career, surpassing his previous large-scale blockbusters.

As is customary with Nolan’s projects, the film boasts an ensemble cast featuring A-list talent. Matt Damon steps into the titular role of Odysseus, while Anne Hathaway portrays his steadfast wife, Penelope, and Tom Holland is cast as their son, Telemachus. The roster is rounded out by formidable actors including Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, and Zendaya, who is reportedly taking on the mantle of the goddess Athena, alongside Charlize Theron. Behind the camera, Nolan reunited with key collaborators from ‘Oppenheimer’: Hoyte van Hoytema serves as the cinematographer, and Ludwig Göransson returns as the composer. The principal photography phase lasted 91 days, running from February through August of 2025, with a clear mandate to capture the sheer brutality of the hero’s odyssey.

Universal Pictures is marketing ‘Odyssey’ as a sweeping mythological action epic, aiming to translate Homer’s foundational saga—dating back to approximately the 8th century BCE—onto the IMAX screen with Nolan’s signature commitment to cinematic realism. Audience anticipation is clearly sky-high; reports indicate that advance ticket sales for the 70mm IMAX screenings, which began a full year before the release date, sold out instantaneously upon release. The film promises to delve deeply into profound themes such as the nature of free will, the essence of heroism, and the relentless struggle against divine interference in mortal affairs.

The commitment to capturing the raw, untamed essence of the ancient world is evident in every frame teased so far. Nolan’s dedication to practical effects and large-format photography suggests an immersive experience unlike any other. This adaptation is poised to redefine the historical epic genre for a modern audience, leveraging cutting-edge technology to honor the spirit of the original text. The sheer scope of the production suggests a cinematic event that will dominate cultural conversations upon its arrival in the summer of 2026.