Olivia Wilde's New Sex Comedy 'The Invite' Premieres at Sundance

The film features a star-studded cast including Edward Norton, Penélope Cruz, and Seth Rogen.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:25pm

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An extreme close-up of shimmering sequins and shattered glass reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamorous, high-tension tone of a modern relationship comedy.The high-fashion textures and lighting of 'The Invite' aim to capture the sultry, seductive tone of Olivia Wilde's new sex comedy.Sundance Today

After the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding her previous film, Olivia Wilde is returning to the world of comedy with her new movie 'The Invite'. Co-written by Rashida Jones, the film is a remake of a Spanish movie that has been adapted several times before. The Invite centers on an unhappy married couple, Joe (Seth Rogen) and Angela (Olivia Wilde), who invite their sexy upstairs neighbors over for dinner, leading to a partner-swapping situation.

Why it matters

Wilde's directorial debut Booksmart was a critical success, establishing her as a promising new voice in comedy. However, the controversy surrounding Don't Worry Darling threatened to overshadow her talents. The Invite represents a chance for Wilde to regain momentum and prove her skills as both a director and storyteller in the genre she excels at.

The details

The Invite had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2026. While the full plot details are being kept under wraps, the film appears to explore modern relationship dynamics through a comedic, sexually-charged lens. In addition to Rogen and Wilde, the cast includes high-profile stars such as Edward Norton and Penélope Cruz.

  • The Invite had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2026.

The players

Olivia Wilde

The director of The Invite, known for her previous work on the acclaimed comedy Booksmart.

Seth Rogen

An actor starring in The Invite as one half of the unhappy married couple at the center of the film's plot.

Rashida Jones

The co-writer of The Invite, collaborating with Wilde on the screenplay for the sex comedy.

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What they’re saying

“After the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding her previous film, Olivia Wilde is returning to the world of comedy with her new movie 'The Invite'.”

— Elizabeth Logan, Author

What’s next

The Invite is expected to have a wider release later in 2026 following its Sundance premiere, though specific release details have not yet been announced.

The takeaway

Olivia Wilde's return to comedy with The Invite represents an opportunity for the director to regain momentum and showcase her talents after the controversies surrounding her previous film. The star-studded cast and intriguing premise have generated significant anticipation for the movie's broader release.