Ray Gunn review: Brad Bird brings Incredibles energy to his animated noir thriller

Brad Bird's film Ray Gunn showcases his talent for creating animated films with depth and sophistication, proving that animation can be for adults as well as children. Set in a futuristic urban landscape where aliens are treated as second-class citizens, the story follows former police officer Ray Gunn (voiced by Sam Rockwell) and his alien partner Eye-Ra (Tom Waits).

Their investigation firm is struggling due to Ray's insistence on doing the right thing and avoiding any form of corruption. The world of Ray Gunn is visually enthralling, with a retro-futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of The Jetsons and Chinatown, featuring a vibrant blend of 1940s noir style and science fiction elements. The voice cast delivers strong performances, with Rockwell providing the comic sharpness needed to keep Ray from coming off too stiff, and Waits adding a world-weary tone with his distinctive voice.

Scarlett Johansson's portrayal of the pop star Venus Nova adds a touch of glamour to the film's dark and complex narrative, while also highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry. While Ray Gunn may not be entirely original in its storytelling, the film's unique visual style, characterizations, and engaging performances make it a compelling watch for both adults and children who appreciate the intricacies of film noir.