Watch the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look 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 his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
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.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
