DreamWorks Animation, known for creating hit animations such as "Shrek," "The Boss Baby," and the "How to Train Your Dragon" series, has announced the release of their new film, "The Wild Robot" (U.S. release: September 27), which will be screened nationwide in Japan from February 7, 2025, starting at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya in Tokyo.

The story begins on a stormy night when a box containing the latest model of an assist robot, programmed to support humans, washes ashore on a deserted island and accidentally activates in a place with no humans to give instructions. By a stroke of luck, the robot develops "emotions" and, living with the animals, overcomes the island's crises in this heartwarming tale.

The film is based on the children's book series "The Wild Robot" by American author Peter Brown. The first book, published in 2016, topped the New York Times bestseller list and became a significant phenomenon, winning numerous literary awards, including the Children's Choice Award for Best Illustrator and the New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book Award.

This masterpiece is being adapted into an animated film by Chris Sanders, who has worked at Disney on "Lilo & Stitch" (2002) and at DreamWorks on "How to Train Your Dragon" (2010). The film is produced by Jeff Hermann, known for his work on "The Boss Baby: Family Business" and the "Kung Fu Panda" series.

The newly released teaser trailer shows Roz, who accidentally activates on a lush green island, saying, "How can I assist you?" as she navigates the island. However, the forest animals are wary and do not approach her. In the midst of this, Roz accidentally witnesses the birth of a baby goose. The trailer ends with the adorable baby goose calling Roz "Mom" and touching her forehead, causing Roz's eyes to glow red.

The island and forest depicted in the film are beautifully illustrated like a painting. Director Chris Sanders revealed, "I drew inspiration from various sources, from Tyrus Wong's paintings in 'Bambi' to the forests in Hayao Miyazaki's works such as 'My Neighbor Totoro'." The delicate depictions, drawn by hand rather than relying on CGI, are noteworthy.

The newly released scene photo shows countless butterflies fluttering around Roz. The delicate and beautiful butterflies and Roz's visuals showcase DreamWorks Animation's high level of craftsmanship, making viewers want to see it on the big screen.

The voice cast for the U.S. includes Lupita Nyong'o, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the 86th Academy Awards for "12 Years a Slave" (2013) and has appeared in acclaimed films such as "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" (2022) and "A Quiet Place: Day One" (2024). The cast also includes Pedro Pascal ("The Mandalorian" series), Catherine O'Hara ("Schitt's Creek" series), Bill Nighy ("Love Actually," "Living"), Kit Connor ("Rocketman"), and Stephanie Hsu ("Everything Everywhere All at Once").

Source : ORICON NEWS