View the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing.

The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, is a film audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, 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.

A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble

This first look reveals Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. 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. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look of the mythical one-eyed giant, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men on their treacherous voyage.

Based upon a foundational pillar of Western literature, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.

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 his wife and son on his home island.

The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with 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. Examples include modern retellings and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical called Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.

The official trailer has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That teaser subsequently found its way online shortly thereafter.

For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide a better, clearer look.

The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide next summer.