View the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie 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, 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.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a foundational pillar 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, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway 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 seen numerous adaptations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of 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 teaser subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
