Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview 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. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, and the deceptive Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. 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 seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, presented as a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way online soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
