🔗 Share this article View the Director's The Odyssey Preview the Way 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 easily ranks as one of the most awaited films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered 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 The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks Odysseus to promise he will return, 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, whose flock Odysseus and his crew steal during their arduous journey. Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, which is depicted within the companion epic, Odysseus endures an extended and hazardous return to his homeland. Legendary Obstacles with an All-Star Cast Along his path, the hero encounters countless challenges and mythical beings. These include the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to overcome anything to get back to Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca. The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Alongside the leading trio are Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Tale of Many Adaptations The classic poem has seen many reinterpretations throughout history. Examples include contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. There has even been adapted into a musical titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a brief teaser that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way online soon after. To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.