Watch the Director's This Epic Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant 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 due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are 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 of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory at Troy, which is depicted in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous return to his homeland.
Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress 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 Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has seen numerous adaptations 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, presented as a multi-part album series.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after.
To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.
