Ray Gunn: First images and plot details for Brad Bird's new film
The animated film will be released on Netflix
"Ray Gunn" is the new film from the creator of "The Incredibles": Brad Bird. An exact release date for the animated film has not yet been set. However, "Ray Gunn" is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in 2026, as the streaming service announced. The images in our article give you a first glimpse of the film.
"Ray Gunn" is set in an alternate future. The plot centers on the title character, Raymond Gunn, a private detective who stands out as an anomaly in the sprawling city of Metropia. That's because, in this world, most investigative work has been taken over by machines. Soon, Gunn is drawn into a case involving aliens and murder. And Venus Nova, the world's most famous pop star. Despite her success, her scandals are becoming a problem for the artist: not only is her career at stake—but possibly her life as well.
Renowned voice actors for Raymond Gunn and Venus Nova
Two renowned voice actors were secured for the two protagonists. The character of Raymond Gunn is voiced by Sam Rockwell, who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" and was most recently seen in the science fiction film "Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die." Scarlett Johansson, in turn, lends her voice to Venus Nova. The actress also boasts an impressive filmography. In addition to smaller dramas like "Marriage Story," she has also appeared in blockbusters such as "Jurassic World: Rebirth." Among her best-known roles is the superhero Black Widow, who has already helped save the world in several films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She speaks enthusiastically about her work on "Ray Gunn." Netflix quotes her as saying:
"Having the opportunity to collaborate with Brad Bird is a career milestone for me. I have loved his work my entire life. This project is so uniquely special because it is a total realization of where Brad is currently on his artistic journey. I can't wait for audiences to see this extraordinary animation that looks like nothing else out there."
Tom Waits takes on another role in the animated film. The musician and actor voices Eyera, a one-eyed alien whom the protagonist Raymond Gunn trusts like no other.
"A blend of sci-fi and classic detective movies from the '40s"
Brad Bird serves as director and producer on "Ray Gunn." He also co-wrote the screenplay with Matthew Robbins. The idea for "Ray Gunn" has been in Bird's mind for over 30 years. The animated film's retrofuturistic look stems from a blend of two genres he envisioned from the start. Netflix quotes him as saying:
"It was always meant to be a blend of sci-fi and classic detective movies from the '40s."
In doing so, "Ray Gunn" aims to prove once again that animated films aren't just for kids—and thus dispel a prejudice that, despite countless counterexamples, still persists. For Bird, one thing is certain:
"Animation as a medium is too interesting to limit what kind of stories can be told."
Brad Bird: Animation Hits and Mission Impossible
His love for the art of animation was already evident in Brad Bird's directorial debut, "The Iron Giant." The animated film about the friendship between a boy and a giant robot won over critics and laid the foundation for further acclaimed films, including the Pixar hits "The Incredibles" and "Ratatouille." In addition to animated films, however, Bird has also distinguished himself in the live-action genre. His "Mission: Impossible" film "Ghost Protocol" is one of the highlights of the action series starring Tom Cruise.
And what does the future hold? In addition to "Ray Gunn," another installment of "The Incredibles" is in the works. The third adventure of the titular superhero family is set to follow in 2028. Unlike the first two installments of the successful animated film series, however, "Incredibles 3" will not be directed by Brad Bird. This time, Peter Sohn is at the helm. Bird is, however, once again involved in the story.
