Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn Debuts to Mixed Early Reviews

Brad Bird’s animated science-fiction noir Ray Gunn premiered at the BFI London Film Festival on October 10, drawing early reviews that praised its retrofuturist design and action while faulting aspects of its story and social commentary. Netflix has scheduled a limited theatrical release for December 4, followed by a streaming debut on December 18, 2026. The film follows Raymond “Ray” Gunn, a private detective in a futuristic city where humans and aliens live under an unequal social order. Voiced by Sam Rockwell, Ray works with an alien partner, EyeRa, voiced by Tom Waits. Their investigation begins with a request to look into pop star Venus Nova, voiced by Scarlett Johansson, and develops into a broader mystery. Reviewers broadly highlighted the film’s elaborate visual world, fast-moving action and blend of science fiction with classic detective-story conventions. Its cityscape draws on retrofuturist and art deco imagery, with flying vehicles and holographic advertisements. Several reviews also praised the voice work, particularly Rockwell’s comic delivery and the contrast with Waits’ dry, world-weary performance.