🔗 Share this article See the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited 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. The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage. Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told within the companion epic, the king faces an extended and hazardous return to his homeland. Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca. This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Tale of Many Adaptations Homer's epic has seen many reinterpretations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter. For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.