Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker'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 preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
