See the Director's This Epic Preview 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 since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Mythical Encounters and a Star-Studded Lineup
On his travels, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. 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 Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has seen numerous adaptations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
