View the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. 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 by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters 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 do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
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 Story Repeatedly Told
Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations over the years. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. 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 was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
