🔗 Share this article Watch 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 we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits as one of the most awaited films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast This first look showcases Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow his safe homecoming, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal on their treacherous voyage. Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey 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 and a Star-Studded Lineup Along his path, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and legendary creatures. These include the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son on his home island. This film's ensemble 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. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. It has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way online soon after. To see a clearer version, the preview available via the movie's verified account might deliver a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.