When asked if she would ever consider voicing another character in the film, Nyong’o gave a firm yet heartfelt answer. "No, I wouldn't want to voice any of the other characters," the Academy Award-winning actress replied. She went on to explain, "Because the other actors do such a good job of voicing those characters, and I really am partial to Roz."
In The Wild Robot, Nyong’o’s character Roz, short for ROZZUM Unit 7134, is a service robot that ends up on an island after a shipwreck. The story follows Roz as she struggles to adapt to her new environment. Along the way, she accidentally destroys a goose nest, but feeling responsible, she cares for the lone egg left behind. That egg eventually hatches into a goose named Bightbill, voiced by Heartstopper star Kit Connor.
Other key characters include a clever fox named Fink, voiced by The Mandalorian star Pedro Pascal, and an opossum brought to life by Catherine O’Hara. As Bightbill grows older and learns to fly, he discovers the truth about his mother’s death, which complicates his relationship with Roz. Despite the tension, Roz faces multiple adventures and challenges, shaping her purpose in life and her bond with Bightbill.
One of the most emotional moments in the film comes when Roz, after choosing to leave the island to protect its animals, returns and reunites with Bightbill, remembering everything from their time together.
Visually, The Wild Robot is stunning, featuring a hand-painted style that draws inspiration from classic Disney films and the works of Hayao Miyazaki. Interestingly, this film also marks a significant milestone for DreamWorks, as it’s their last film created entirely in-house, with future productions set to outsource parts of the animation.
The Wild Robot will make its debut in international theaters on October 18, promising a heartwarming adventure for audiences worldwide.