James L. Brooks’ ‘Ella McCay’ Premieres on Disney+!

The entertainment industry buzzed when James L. Brooks, an Academy Award-winning director, premiered his latest film, Ella McKay. Critics described it as a “clever, humorous, and highly relevant movie set in the backdrop of U.S. politics, focusing on a young, driven woman.”

Despite its broad release by Disney’s 20th Century Studios last month, the film didn’t attract much attention at the box office. The hope is it will gain more viewers upon its debut on Disney+ come February 5.

James L. Brooks, known for his impactful female-centric narratives in films like Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News, and As Good as It Gets, as well as the television hit The Mary Tyler Moore Show, continues this tradition with his latest project.

Described as a “new and uplifting comedy about the family members you cherish and the challenges of sticking together,” Ella McKay stars the remarkable French-British actress Emma Mackey (Sex Education) as a dedicated young woman balancing her challenging family life with her political career. Her journey intensifies as she climbs the ranks from chief of staff for a city mayor to a top advisor for the shrewd Lieutenant Governor Bill, portrayed by Albert Brooks.

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Curtis shines as Ella’s loyal Aunt Helen, grounding the film with her presence. Another standout is Albert Brooks, a veteran of Broadcast News, who delivers a nuanced performance as the politically savvy yet down-to-earth governor who guides Ella’s aspirations with a dose of realism.

The film’s cast also includes Jack Lowden, Kumail Nanjiani, Ayo Edebiri, Spike Fearn, Rebecca Hall, Julie Kavner, Becky Ann Baker, Joey Brooks, and Woody Harrelson.

The production team is led by James L. Brooks, alongside Richard Sakai, Julie Ansell, and Jennifer Brooks, all of whom are credited as producers.

After years of focusing on projects like The Edge of Seventeen and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, as well as his ongoing role in the production of The Simpsons, Brooks was propelled to return to the director’s chair to craft an original story, marking his first directorial effort in fifteen years.

Brooks has expressed that his aim with this film was to honor the “golden era of movie comedies from the 1940s and 50s.” He noted, “The real challenge was to encapsulate the wild spirit of that period while also authentically portraying the realities, shocks, and struggles of human life.”

You can check out the latest trailer below.