Ella McCay | Official Trailer

The trailer for Ella McCay marks the return of veteran filmmaker James L. Brooks, who hasn’t directed a film since 2010. The story follows the titular Ella McCay (Emma Mackey), a young, idealistic lieutenant governor unexpectedly pushed into the governor’s seat. She must balance political ambition, family drama (including her estranged father, brother and aunt), and the intrusion of public life into private relationships. 

The tone is comedic yet poignant. The trailer highlights both the absurdities of politics and the emotional cost of leadership, especially when personal issues spill into professional life. With a cast including Woody Harrelson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kumail Nanjiani and more, the film positions itself as both a satire of power and a heartfelt exploration of what it means to lead when you’re still figuring yourself out. 

It’s a movie that seems to ask: can you stay true to yourself when the world demands you become something else? For those interested in films about contemporary power, identity and family ties—Ella McCay might be one to watch.

20th Century Studios