View the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film 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, 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
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, the hero encounters 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 his wife and son on his home island.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio is 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 over the years. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There 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 since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.
