Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited 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—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There 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 short teaser clip which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens next summer.
