Sony Pictures has released the first official images of “Klara and the Sun,” the upcoming dystopian science-fiction adaptation directed by Taika Waititi and starring Jenna Ortega, per movieweb.com.
Based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2021 novel, the film is scheduled for a theatrical release on October 23.
The film features Ortega in the title role as Klara, a solar-powered android hired by a mother, played by Amy Adams, to accompany her ailing teenage daughter, portrayed by Mia Tharia. The story follows the robot’s meditative journey through a dystopian future, exploring themes of loneliness, love, humanity and spirituality.
The project marks a significant stylistic departure for Waititi, a filmmaker primarily known for eccentric comedies and blockbuster productions such as Thor: Ragnarok.
Waititi, who co-wrote the screenplay with Dahvi Waller, described the adaptation as his most dramatic and challenging work to date. He noted that early attempts to inject comedy into the script failed, prompting a decision to adhere strictly to the dramatic tone of the source material.
The production also represents a shift for Ortega, who recently gained prominence for her role in the supernatural Netflix series Wednesday. Waititi stated that the production aimed to utilise Ortega’s real-life charm and humour rather than her established on-screen persona. Ortega indicated that the role provided a welcome departure from her previous young adult and horror projects.
Principal photography for the feature film began in early 2024 in New Zealand. Waititi attributed the lengthy post-production process to a deliberate effort to establish the appropriate tone during the editing phase, moving away from the comedic expectations established by his previous films over the last decade.
The release marks the first major promotional material for the adaptation since a preliminary trailer was screened for industry figures at CinemaCon earlier this year. Produced by David Heyman, the film also features Natasha Lyonne in a supporting role.
•Featured image credit:Sony Pictures
