Judging by the just-dropped teaser trailer for “Luca,” the directorial feature debut of Enrico Casarosa will probably reside in the lower-tier Pixar class of films. You know, the more conventional stuff, devoid of the inventive and risky storytelling of such classics as “WALL-E,” “Inside Out” and “Up!”. Which not to say that every Pixar film that belong in the lower-tier category is bad — there are good traits to be found in “Monsters University,” Cars,” “Brave” and others.
No, “Luca,” which is described to be “about an unforgettable summer on the Italian Riviera with the titular 13-year-old protagonist and his best friend, Alberto — a sea monster” will likely not end up in the Pixar time capsule. Expect scooter rides, swimming, pasta, and lots of Gelato in this one, but also luscious, almost handmade-looking, animation from the wizards at the toon company.
Luca is being voiced by “Wonder” star Jacob Tremblay and Alberto by “Shazam’s” Jack Dylan Grazer. The voice cast also includes Maya Rudolph (as Luca’s mother, Daniela); Emma Berman (as Luca’s friend, Giulia); Marco Barricelli (as Giulia’s father, Massimo); and Jim Gaffigan (as Luca’s dad, Lorenzo).
The movie is supposed to hit theaters on June 18; There is, for now, no announced date on Disney Plus …