Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. 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—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse at the Legendary Cast
This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.
Based upon a foundational pillar in classic storytelling, 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 road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is 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 many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That teaser later made its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide next summer.