AceShowbiz - The Invite marks the highly anticipated directorial comeback of Olivia Wilde after her 2022 film Don't Worry Darling. The new trailer for this A24 comedy has been released, offering audiences their first substantial look at the film’s quirky and suspenseful tone. Notably, Olivia Wilde also stars alongside a celebrated cast including Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton. The screenplay is written by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, adding a fresh voice to this intriguing project.

The trailer opens with Wilde’s character, Angela, preparing for a double date with her husband Joe, played by Rogen. Their guests are a couple named Pina and Hawk, portrayed by Cruz and Norton, respectively. What starts as a seemingly ordinary meeting soon becomes layered with unusual tension and comedic twists. The visitors propose an unusual activity designed to bring the two couples closer together, which unfolds with a mix of humor and increasing unease. This premise sets the tone for a narrative that promises unexpected developments and a darkly comedic exploration of relationships.

Based on early reviews, The Invite is being praised as a sharp, unpredictable comedy that centers on the dynamics between the two couples. The story gradually reveals that Cruz and Norton’s characters have a specific and somewhat unsettling agenda, creating a compelling crescendo that drives the film’s tension. The movie is an adaptation of the Spanish comedy The People Upstairs by Cesc Gay, and it currently holds an impressive 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 33 reviews, signaling strong critical approval ahead of its theatrical release in July 2026.

This film represents a significant moment for Olivia Wilde, whose previous directorial effort received mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike. The Invite had its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2026, where it garnered considerable acclaim. The buzz surrounding the film led to a competitive bidding war for distribution rights, ultimately won by A24 for North American release.

The trailer hints at the film’s cryptic and comedic nature, with Cruz and Norton’s characters displaying a disturbingly intense fascination with the central couple. Their motives appear layered and secretive, suggesting a deeper narrative that the film will explore more thoroughly. Early impressions imply their plans might involve a provocative element, possibly a sexual encounter involving all four characters, which aligns with the film’s themes of intimacy and marital strain.

While the exact details remain shrouded in mystery, The Invite promises to deliver unexpected twists and compelling character dynamics. The film’s tone, as conveyed in the trailer, balances humor with a suspenseful edge, setting it apart from conventional romantic comedies. This combination of comedy and tension is likely to engage audiences looking for something fresh and unpredictable.

The Invite is scheduled for release on June 26, 2026, with a runtime of 108 minutes. The film is directed by Olivia Wilde and features a talented ensemble cast: Olivia Wilde as Angela, Seth Rogen as Joe, Penélope Cruz as Pina, and Edward Norton as Hawk. The screenplay credits go to Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, while producers include David Permut, Ben Browning, Megan Ellison, and Saul Germaine.

With its intriguing premise, strong cast, and positive early reception, The Invite is poised to be a standout comedy in the 2026 film lineup. Fans of sharp, character-driven stories and dark humor will find much to anticipate in this release. The film’s blend of suspense, relationship drama, and comedy under Olivia Wilde’s direction suggests a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.