Watch the Director's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits 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 trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Mythical Encounters with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
