🔗 Share this article See the Director's The Odyssey Trailer in a Manner It Wasn't Meant for Viewing. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating since its announcement. It easily ranks 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 by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble The debut footage showcases Matt Damon in the role of Odysseus. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, the character pleads with Odysseus to promise his safe homecoming, only for him to respond by asking what happens if he cannot. The trailer also offers 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 in classic storytelling, The Odyssey follows the epic journey of the legendary King of Ithaca. Following his victory in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces a long and perilous road home. Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup On his travels, Odysseus confronts numerous obstacles and mythical beings. This roster features the enchantress Circe, known for turning humans into pigs, and the deceptive Sirens. Despite these trials, his sworn oath is to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus in Ithaca. The adaptation's cast is remarkably star-studded. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron as the cunning Circe, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Story Repeatedly Told Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations throughout history. These range from contemporary versions to a 1999 ballet. There has even been adapted into a musical titled 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 short teaser clip that previously played exclusively in theaters. That footage later made its way onto the internet soon after. For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the movie's verified account may provide enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey is scheduled for release in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.