Watch the Director's This Epic Trailer the Way It Was Never Intended for Viewing.
The acclaimed filmmaker's legendary action saga, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised 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
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying the king of Ithaca. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse 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 undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to his wife and son in Ithaca.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series.
A full-length preview was long awaited since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way online soon after.
To see a clearer version, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
