Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via 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.
