See the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a trailer has finally arrived, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Adapted from a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, 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 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 inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
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 later made its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.
