Brad Bird's Sci-Fi Noir 'Ray Gunn' Trailer Released

Netflix and Skydance Animation have released the official trailer for 'Ray Gunn,' an animated science fiction noir film directed by Brad Bird. This marks a significant unveiling for the project, which has been a passion project for Bird for approximately 30 years. The film is set in Metropia, an expansive, alternate-future metropolis that fuses human and alien populations with a distinct 1939 retro aesthetic. The narrative follows private investigator Raymond Gunn, voiced by Sam Rockwell, who becomes entangled in a complex and dangerous murder mystery. His investigation leads him to Venus Nova, a prominent multimedia star voiced by Scarlett Johansson. The voice cast is further expanded with notable actors including Tom Waits, Alan Tudyk, Matt Berry, Bobby Cannavale, Michelle Rodriguez, John Ratzenberger, and Patton Oswalt, contributing to the film's rich character landscape. 'Ray Gunn' is scheduled for a limited theatrical release in 70mm format on December 4, 2026. This special theatrical engagement will precede its global debut on the Netflix streaming platform on December 18, 2026. The production is a collaborative effort, with Brad Bird serving as director and producer alongside John Lasseter, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Lisa Beroud. The trailer offers a glimpse into the film's unique visual style and atmospheric storytelling, hinting at a blend of classic noir elements with futuristic science fiction concepts. The 70mm release signifies a commitment to a premium cinematic experience, a format known for its high-resolution imagery and immersive sound. The film's setting in Metropia, a city described as a blend of diverse inhabitants and a retro visual style, suggests a world-building approach that draws from various historical and imaginative influences. The central conflict involving a murder mystery and a multimedia icon points towards a plot driven by intrigue and suspense. The involvement of a director like Brad Bird, known for his acclaimed work on animated features such as 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille,' indicates a high standard of animation and storytelling quality expected from 'Ray Gunn.' The extensive voice cast further bolsters anticipation, bringing together a range of established talents to bring the characters to life. The dual release strategy, with a theatrical run followed by a streaming debut, aims to cater to different audience preferences and maximize the film's reach. The 70mm format, while niche, often appeals to cinephiles and those seeking a distinct theatrical presentation. The subsequent global Netflix release ensures accessibility for a wider audience. The film's genre, sci-fi noir, suggests a fusion of speculative fiction themes with the dark, gritty, and often morally ambiguous atmosphere characteristic of film noir.