Ray Gunn: A Nostalgic Noir Adventure with Sam Rockwell and Scarlett Johansson

Brad Bird's latest animated film blends sci-fi and classic detective movies for a captivating experience.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:25pm

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An extreme close-up of a shimmering, textured surface in dramatic lighting, conceptually representing the high-end, glamorous aesthetic of the animated film 'Ray Gunn'.The vibrant visual style of 'Ray Gunn' promises to captivate audiences with its blend of retro-futuristic noir and Hollywood glamour.Seattle Today

Get ready for a thrilling ride into the world of animation with Brad Bird's latest masterpiece, 'Ray Gunn'. This animated detective noir is set to revolutionize the way we perceive animated films, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry. With a star-studded voice cast and a unique blend of genres, 'Ray Gunn' promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

Why it matters

Brad Bird, the visionary behind iconic films like 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille', has always challenged the status quo. With 'Ray Gunn', Bird aims to break free from the limitations of animation, crafting a story that has been brewing in his mind for over 30 years. The film's premise, a fusion of sci-fi and classic detective movies, is a testament to Bird's ability to create timeless narratives that appeal to a diverse audience.

The details

Set in the retro-futuristic city of Metropia, 'Ray Gunn' takes us on a journey through a world where skyscrapers soar, cars fly, and jetpacks are a common mode of transportation. The film's protagonist, Raymond Gunn, voiced by the talented Sam Rockwell, is a private eye caught in a web of aliens, murder, and a mysterious multimedia star, Venus Nova, voiced by the captivating Scarlett Johansson. The voice cast, including the legendary Tom Waits, brings a unique energy to the characters, ensuring a captivating performance.

  • The film is set to stream on Netflix in 2026.

The players

Brad Bird

The visionary director behind 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille', who is pushing the boundaries of animation with 'Ray Gunn'.

Sam Rockwell

The talented actor who voices the film's protagonist, Raymond Gunn.

Scarlett Johansson

The captivating actress who voices the mysterious multimedia star, Venus Nova.

Tom Waits

The legendary actor and musician who is part of the star-studded voice cast.

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What they’re saying

“It's an amazing art form that is way too limited in people's minds.”

— Brad Bird, Director

What’s next

As 'Ray Gunn' prepares to stream on Netflix in 2026, it marks a significant step in the evolution of animation. Bird's commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium is evident, and his influence on the industry cannot be overstated.

The takeaway

This film is not just a detective story or a sci-fi adventure; it's a celebration of the limitless possibilities of animation. 'Ray Gunn' will not only entertain audiences but also inspire a new generation of animators and filmmakers to explore the untapped potential of this art form.