Trailer for I, OBJECT From the Director of GATTACA Introduces a Heartwarming Story About a Boy Who Talks to Everyday Objects
A new trailer has arrived for I, Object, an upcoming New Zealand coming-of-age drama that puts a unique spin on grief, imagination, and friendship.
The film comes from Andrew Niccol, the filmmaker best known for directing Gattaca, S1m0ne, Lord of War, In Time, The Host, Good Kill, and Anon. After spending years in the sci-fi space, Niccol is returning with something much more personal and emotionally driven.
The newly released Kiwi trailer offers a first look at a story centered on Tom, a 10-year-old boy whose vivid imagination helps him navigate a heartbreaking loss.
Following the sudden death of his father, Tom struggles to connect with the people around him and instead finds comfort in an unusual place: everyday household objects that come to life and speak with him.
The film's tagline perfectly captures its spirit: “Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes.” In I, Object, grieving becomes an imaginative journey as Tom discovers personalities and faces hidden within the ordinary items surrounding him. Those objects become companions, guides, and emotional support as he works through the pain of losing his father.
The story immediately brings to mind last year's IF, which also explored a child finding comfort through extraordinary companions. While the concepts share some similarities, I, Object appears to lean more heavily into the emotional realities of grief and healing through imagination.
The film stars Bentley Storteboom as Tom alongside Skywalker Hughes, Anna Faris, Tom Kerr, and Karl Urban. Urban also serves as one of the film's producers.
Niccol wrote and directed the project, marking his first feature film since 2018's Anon. While he's long been associated with thought-provoking science fiction stories, I, Object looks like it will showcase a very different side of his storytelling abilities.
As of now, the film hasn't premiered at any festivals or special events that we're aware of, making this trailer the first substantial look audiences have received. Umbrella Entertainment is set to release I, Object in New Zealand cinemas beginning July 23, 2026.
Unfortunately, there’s still no word on a U.S. release date. Hopefully that changes soon because this looks like the kind of heartfelt and imaginative family drama that could connect with audiences.
For now, the trailer offers an intriguing glimpse at a charming story about loss, healing, and the unexpected friendships that can help us get through life's toughest moments.