What you need to know...
Step into the chaos of politics at Everyman this December!
James L. Brooks returns with 'Ella McCay', arriving at Everyman on 12 December 2025. This witty, character-driven political comedy follows Ella McCay (Emma Mackey), a young idealist who suddenly finds herself taking on the role of state governor just as her personal life starts to spin out of control.
When her mentor (Albert Brooks) is called away to Washington, Ella has to face the pressures of public expectation and a watchful media, all while confronting unresolved family tensions and past mistakes. Her complicated relationship with her father (Woody Harrelson), a man dealing with his own struggles, brings real emotional weight, while her sharp-tongued aunt (Jamie Lee Curtis) provides comic relief and candid advice.
The ensemble cast also includes Kumail Nanjiani, Ayo Edebiri, Rebecca Hall, Jack Lowden, Julie Kavner, Becky Ann Baker, and Spike Fearn, helping Brooks weave together political satire and heartfelt, human moments.
Written and directed by Brooks, Ella McCay carries his trademark warmth, humour, and messy humanity. Filmed on location in Rhode Island with an original score by Hans Zimmer, it’s a grounded, often hilarious look at state politics, less about party lines, more about the people trying to make it work.
Did you know?
This is James L. Brooks’ first film as a director since How Do You Know (2010).
See this if you liked...
Little Miss Sunshine (2006), As Good As It Gets (1997), The Candidate (1972)