The Oscar-nominated actor and the pop superstar are set to reunite on the big screen for a second time in a new animated feature from the studio behind some of Hollywood’s biggest franchises.
Timothée Chalamet and Selena Gomez have signed on to star in "Not Alone," an upcoming animated adventure from Illumination. The announcement was made at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, where the studio unveiled its plans for the project .
The film is scheduled for release on April 16, 2027, and marks Chalamet’s first-ever voice role in a feature-length animated movie . Gomez, meanwhile, is no stranger to animation, having previously lent her voice to the "Hotel Transylvania" franchise. The pair previously shared the screen in Woody Allen's 2019 romantic comedy "A Rainy Day in New York."
A Love Story with Intergalactic Stakes
Chalamet, 30, will voice Joe, an introverted rocket mechanic who prefers a quiet life in solitude . Gomez, 33, takes on the role of Fran, a brilliant astro-botanist who is developing the world's first plant-powered rocket . Their paths cross as they are brought together to prepare for the rocket's historic inaugural launch.
According to the film's official synopsis, sparks fly between the two characters, though neither is particularly skilled at romance . Their budding relationship becomes significantly more complicated when three tiny alien fugitives crash into Joe's life.
The lovable extraterrestrials—named Dunk, Welly, and Shirm—are on the run from an overzealous but incompetent law officer named Zandro . The aliens believe Fran's revolutionary rocket could provide their ticket back home, pulling the unlikely group into a high-stakes mission.
Star-Studded Supporting Cast and Creative Team
The voice cast features an impressive ensemble of comedic talent. Rob Brydon, Diane Morgan, and Jamie Demetriou will voice the three alien characters, while Brett Goldstein, known for his Emmy-winning role in "Ted Lasso," will portray Officer Zandro . Allison Janney and Lamorne Morris round out the supporting cast .
The film is being co-directed by Illumination veterans Eric Guillon, Claire Dodgson, and Jonathan Del Val. Guillon previously served as co-director on "Despicable Me 3" and was the lead designer for the "Despicable Me" and "Minions" films . Dodgson brings experience as an editor on major Illumination hits including "The Lorax" and "Minions," while Del Val co-directed "Minions: The Rise of Gru" and "The Secret Life of Pets 2" .
A Significant Project for Both Stars
For Chalamet, "Not Alone" represents an expansion of his already diverse portfolio, which includes the blockbuster "Dune" franchise and acclaimed dramas like "Call Me by Your Name" . The actor will complete work on "Dune: Part Three" before transitioning to the lighter, family-friendly tone of this animated adventure.
Gomez continues her prolific career, balancing music with acting roles. The "Only Murders in the Building" star and Grammy nominee has remained busy with her hit Hulu series in addition to her music career .
Illumination's Continued Success
The project adds to Illumination's impressive slate of animated features. The studio, founded and led by Chris Meledandri, has produced some of the most successful animated franchises in history, including "Despicable Me," "Minions," and "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" . Meledandri is producing "Not Alone" alongside executive producers Joy Poirel, Richard Curtis, and David Distenfeld .
With a release date set for April 2027, "Not Alone" offers audiences an original story featuring a blend of romance, comedy, and intergalactic adventure, showcasing two of Hollywood's biggest stars in their first animated collaboration.