Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited 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—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise 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 are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.