🔗 Share this article Watch the Director's The Odyssey Preview in a Manner It Wasn't Meant to Be Seen. The acclaimed filmmaker's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie audiences have been anticipating ever since it was revealed. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. In a festive surprise, a preview has now been released, even if it's compromised due to the platform's low-quality encoding—perhaps explaining the director's choice to restrict the preview exclusive to cinemas. The Initial Look of the Stellar Ensemble This first look showcases Matt Damon in the role of the king of Ithaca. Audiences are introduced to Tom Holland as Telemachus alongside Anne Hathaway depicting the loyal wife. In a poignant moment, the character pleads with her husband to vow his safe homecoming, only for him to look up and question what happens if he cannot. Furthermore, the preview provides a brief, shadowy glimpse at Polyphemus the Cyclops, from whom sheep are are taken by the hero and his men 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 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 legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to overcome anything to reunite with his wife and son in Ithaca. This film's ensemble boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal. A Story Repeatedly Told Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from contemporary versions and a late-90s dance production. It has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, released in the form of a nine-album collection. A full-length preview has been highly anticipated following the project's reveal and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet soon after. To see a clearer version, the preview available via the film's official social channel might deliver enhanced visual quality. The Odyssey will debut in IMAX theaters worldwide on July 17, 2026.