A24 has unveiled the debut trailer for The Invite.
The latest directorial effort from Olivia Wilde, The Invite, has been showcased through a newly released trailer by the renowned studio A24. This comedy marks Wilde’s first directorial project since the release of Don’t Worry Darling in 2022, which featured Florence Pugh and Harry Styles. In her new film, Wilde shares the screen with an ensemble cast including Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton, with the screenplay penned by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack.
A24’s fresh trailer for The Invite reveals more about the film’s humorous plot. The footage starts with Wilde’s character gearing up for a double date with her husband, portrayed by Rogen, and a couple played by Cruz and Norton. The preview teases a seemingly ordinary yet peculiar and suspense-filled encounter that quickly hints at underlying complexities.
As the trailer unfolds, it becomes apparent that Cruz and Norton’s characters are keen on involving Wilde and Rogen in an activity meant to bring the couples closer. Initially received with humor, the situation escalates into chaos as the true intentions behind the couple’s invitation start to unravel. Viewers can watch the complete trailer below:
Critiques of The Invite suggest that the film delivers a clever and unpredictable comedic experience focused on the dynamics between the couples and their romantic entanglements. Additionally, the plot thickens as it becomes clear that Cruz and Norton’s characters have particular expectations from Wilde and Rogen, culminating in a gripping climax that adds depth to the film.
Based on Cesc Gay’s Spanish comedy The People Upstairs, The Invite boasts a promising 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 33 reviews. Its anticipated release in theaters in July 2026 is off to a promising start, signaling a strong comeback for Wilde after the mixed reactions to Don’t Worry Darling.
The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2026, where it received considerable acclaim. Following its premiere, the film was at the center of a heated bidding war among several studios eager to secure its distribution rights, with A24 ultimately securing the rights for North America.
The trailer hints at a blend of mystery and humor, with Cruz and Norton’s characters showing a peculiar and somewhat unsettling interest in Wilde and Rogen’s couple. Their motivations hint at a deeper, possibly sinister agenda, which the film promises to explore further.
Early reviews suggest their fascination involves dubious intentions, potentially leading to a risqué encounter among the four characters, a scenario hinted at in the trailer amidst marital tensions between Wilde and Rogen’s characters. While the full details remain under wraps, The Invite is set to feature numerous surprises and twists, promising an engaging and thought-provoking narrative.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
