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

The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting ever since it was revealed. It firmly sits among the most hotly anticipated motion pictures coming next year. As a pre-Christmas treat, a trailer has finally arrived, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—maybe illustrating the director's choice to restrict the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.

The Initial Look at the Legendary Cast

The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a quick, obscured look at Polyphemus the Cyclops, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.

Adapted from a cornerstone of Western literature, The Odyssey follows the epic journey undertaken by the famed ruler. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told within the companion epic, Odysseus endures a long and perilous return to his homeland.

Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast

Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and legendary creatures. This roster features the witch-goddess Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca.

This film's ensemble is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway are Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, together with Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.

A Story Repeatedly Told

Homer's epic has inspired many reinterpretations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection.

A full-length preview was long awaited following the project's reveal and a brief teaser which was initially shown only on the big screen. That footage later made its way online shortly thereafter.

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


The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.

Kimberly Pollard
Kimberly Pollard

Astrophysicist and science communicator with over a decade of experience in space research and public outreach.