It’s odd that Netflix hasn’t given us any hints as to what’s in store for Lost Ollie, which was first announced in 2020. A trailer had yet to be released despite the cast announcement and the release of the first look photographs in late June. Streaming service Hulu has opted to give us a closer peek at the tale and the tone and rhythm of the show as the release date approaches. After being separated from its owner and closest buddy, a stuffed animal sets off on an expedition to reunite with him. However, despite the fact that Lost Ollie’s original idea evoked “live-action Toy Plot” connotations, the teaser reveals that the story is likely going to be darker, with a gloomy protagonist.
Nevertheless, there are echoes of Toy Story in here, with Ollie encountering other toys on his mission to find his family and forming a strong relationship with them. Trailers suggest that Lost Ollie is a heartfelt journey for the titular figure who meets people and other toys that teach him lessons in life. As a bonus, the trailer shows the impressive combination of CGI and stop-motion animation that brings Ollie and his toy companions to life. Ollie’s Odyssey, a children’s book written and illustrated by William Joyce, is the inspiration for Lost Ollie. Shannon Tindle (Kubo & the Two Strings, Coraline) acts as the show’s creator, writer, and executive producer for the television adaptation.
Emmy Award-winning director Peter Ramsey (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) serves as both director and executive producer for the series episodes. Ollie is played by Jonathan Groff, who previously appeared in Mindhunter and The Umbrella Academy, while Rosy, a warrior teddy bear made from various toys, is voiced by Mary J. Blige (The Umbrella Academy), and Zozo, a vintage-looking clown doll with wisdom befitting his age (Tim Blake Nelson, Nightmare Alley) is voiced by Jonathan Groff (Mindhunter).
Ollie’s best buddy Billy is played by Kesler Talbot (50 States of Fright) in the live-action part, while Billy’s parents are played by Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin) and Jake Johnson (Minx). The first four episodes of Lost Ollie will be available on Netflix on August 24.
Summary
In ‘Lost Ollie,’ a lost toy braves the risks of boyhood as he seeks for the kid who lost him; and the narrative of the youngster who lost more than just a best friend.’ If you have ever lost a loved one and you’re looking for a way to remember them, this is the book for you.