Watch the First Trailer for the Heartfelt Sci-Fi Drama Arriving in Theatres October 23, 2026
A moving story about friendship, family and what it means to be human is coming to theaters this fall.
Based on the internationally bestselling novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, KLARA AND THE SUN arrives exclusively in theatres on October 23, 2026. The highly anticipated adaptation is written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Thor: Ragnarok) and stars Jenna Ortega in the title role.
Combining heartfelt drama, science fiction and emotional storytelling, Klara and the Sun explores love, loss and hope through the eyes of an Artificial Friend determined to help those she cares about.
Klara and the Sun
- Director: Taika Waititi
- Starring: Jenna Ortega, Mia Tharia, Amy Adams, Natasha Lyonne, Aran Murphy, Rachel House, Steve Buscemi, Davida McKenzie
- Genre: Science Fiction, Drama, Comedy
What Is Klara and the Sun About?
At the center of the story is Klara (Jenna Ortega), an Artificial Friend, or AF, designed to provide companionship to lonely children. Intelligent, observant and endlessly optimistic, Klara spends her days waiting for someone to choose her and give her a home.
Her life changes when she meets Josie (Mia Tharia), a thoughtful young girl who immediately forms a deep connection with her. As their friendship grows, Klara becomes part of a family struggling with grief, uncertainty and emotional wounds.
Josie shares a complicated relationship with her mother (Amy Adams), and both carry the weight of personal loss. Through Klara’s unwavering loyalty, kindness and innocent perspective on the world, she begins to bring healing and hope into their lives.
But as Klara learns more about human emotions, sacrifice and love, she discovers that being a friend may require more than she ever imagined.
An Exceptional Cast Brings Ishiguro’s Vision to Life
Jenna Ortega as Klara
The acclaimed actress takes on the role of the Artificial Friend whose curiosity, compassion and devotion drive the heart of the story.
Mia Tharia as Josie
A young girl who forms an extraordinary bond with Klara while navigating personal and family struggles.
Amy Adams as Josie’s Mother
The six-time Academy Award nominee portrays a mother dealing with loss, fear and the difficult choices that come with protecting her daughter.
Aran Murphy
Appears in a key supporting role.
Steve Buscemi
The acclaimed actor joins the ensemble in a supporting role.
Natasha Lyonne
The Emmy-nominated actress adds her unique voice and presence to the film’s cast.
Taika Waititi Adapts a Modern Literary Classic
Known for balancing humor, emotion and humanity in films such as Jojo Rabbit, Waititi brings his distinctive storytelling style to Ishiguro’s beloved novel.
The screenplay is written by:
- Taika Waititi
- Dahvi Waller
Together, they adapt one of the most celebrated science-fiction novels of the last decade into a cinematic experience that promises both emotional depth and visual wonder.
Why Fans Are Excited
Since its publication, Klara and the Sun has been praised for its thought-provoking exploration of artificial intelligence, human connection and the nature of love.
The film adaptation offers:
- Jenna Ortega in one of her most ambitious roles to date
- An emotional science-fiction story grounded in humanity
- A stellar supporting cast led by Amy Adams
- Direction from Academy Award winner Taika Waititi
- A faithful adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s bestselling novel
Film Information
Klara and the Sun
Genre: Comedy / Drama / Science Fiction
Release Date: October 23, 2026
Rating: PG-13
Rated PG-13 For:
- Thematic elements
- Some violence
- Strong language
Directed By
Taika Waititi
Screenplay By
Taika Waititi and Dahvi Waller
Based On The Novel By
Kazuo Ishiguro
Cast
- Jenna Ortega as Klara
- Amy Adams as Josie’s Mother
- Mia Tharia as Josie
- Aran Murphy
- Steve Buscemi
- Natasha Lyonne
Official Synopsis
Based on the bestselling novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, Klara and the Sun follows Klara, an Artificial Friend who longs to find the perfect home. When she meets Josie, the two quickly form a profound bond. As Klara becomes part of Josie’s family, her unwavering loyalty and unique perspective begin to heal emotional wounds and illuminate the complexities of the human experience.
Klara and the Sun opens exclusively in theaters on October 23, 2026.
