Netflix’s upcoming animated fantasy epic, The Imaginary, is directed by veteran animator Yoshiyuki Momose, who worked for decades at the legendary Studio Ghibli. Now, Momose is adapting an award-winning novel of the same name, by A.F. Harrold and illustrated by Emily Gravett. The story centers around a young girl Amanda (voiced in English by Evie Kiszel) who has an imaginary friend, Rudger (voiced in English by Louie Rudge-Buchanan).
One day, the two realize that Rudger is not the only imaginary friend around, opening up a fantastical world full of incredible characters. The English cast includes, Hayley Atwell, Sky Katz, Jeremy Swift, Kal Penn and LeVar Burton.
At first, the premise sounds similar to the recently released live-action film IF, directed by John Krasinski, but the trailer reveals some intriguing darker elements in the story, as well as what looks to be more of an adventure centered story.
Beyond the story, the art and animation look gorgeous, utilizing groundbreaking hand-drawn animation with innovative light and shadow techniques.
Check out the trailer below. The Imaginary premieres July 5, 2024 on Netflix!
ABOUT THE IMAGINARY
Studio Ponoc’s The Imaginary portrays the depths of humanity and creativity through the eyes of young Amanda and her imaginary companion, Rudger, a boy no one can see imagined by Amanda to share her thrilling make-believe adventures. But when Rudger, suddenly alone, arrives at The Town of Imaginaries, where forgotten Imaginaries live and find work, he faces a mysterious threat. Directed by renowned animator Yoshiyuki Momose (Spirited Away), The Imaginary is an unforgettable adventure of love, loss, and the healing power of imagination.
The groundbreaking hand-drawn animation of The Imaginary is heightened by first-of-their-kind techniques of light and shadow. The Imaginary is based on the beloved and award-winning novel of the same name by A.F. Harrold and illustrated by Emily Gravett (Bloomsbury Publishing).
Key Details
Streaming Release Date: July 5, 2024
Production: Studio Ponoc
Director: Yoshiyuki Momose (Modest Heroes, Tomorrow’s Leaves)
Screenwriter/Producer: Yoshiaki Nishimura, Two-time Academy Award nominee (The Tale of The Princess Kaguya, When Marnie Was There)
Cast: Louie Rudge-Buchanan (Rudger), Evie Kiszel (Amanda), Hayley Atwell (Lizzie), Sky Katz (Emily), Jeremy Swift (Mr Bunting), Kal Penn (Zinzan), LeVar Burton (The Old Dog), Jane Singer (Granny Downbeat), Ruby Barnhill (Aurora), Roger Craig Smith (Snowflake), Courtenay Taylor (Cruncher-of-Bones), Miles Nibbe (John)
Main Theme Song “Nothing’s Impossible” Performed by: A Great Big World featuring Rachel Platten
Ron is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of POC Culture. He is a big believer in the power and impact of pop culture and the importance of representation in media.
