🔗 Share this article View the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating 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—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage. Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland. Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. 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 on his home island. The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Story Repeatedly Told Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. The official trailer was long awaited following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way onto the internet soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.