Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated 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 of the Stellar Ensemble
This first look reveals Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside 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 happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, the hero encounters numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island.
This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Story Repeatedly Told
The classic poem has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical called 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 which was initially shown only on the big screen. That teaser subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look.
The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide next summer.