🔗 Share this article See the Director's The Odyssey Preview 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 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, 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 playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what occurs should he fail. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey. Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. After his triumph at Troy, as told in Homer's Iliad, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous road home. Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast On his travels, the hero encounters numerous obstacles 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 in Ithaca. The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway 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 seen numerous adaptations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation called Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a multi-part album series. The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a brief teaser that previously played only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look. The Odyssey will debut on global IMAX screens on July 17, 2026.