View the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, 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
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus 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 occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble 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
The classic poem has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
