The first trailer for the much-anticipated live-action remake of Disney classic Pinocchio is out and Tom Hanks is already earning praise for his take on Geppetto.
Tom, who famously hosted a TV special for Joe Biden's Inauguration over a year ago, takes on the role of the iconic wood-carver who creates a puppet child named Pinocchio which he cares for as his own son.
In this latest remake of the 1940 classic, Benjamin Evan Ainsworth plays Pinocchio. The cast is rounded out by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who takes on the role of Jiminy Cricket, Cynthia Erivo as the Blue Fairy, Luke Evans as Coachman and Keegan-Michael Key as John. Expect a new character named Sofia the Seagull (played by Lorraine Bracco) to also star in the film, which was directed by Robert Zemeckis of Forrest Gump fame.
The teaser clip features one of the most recognizable invocations of the original film. "Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight," says Geppetto in the trailer. "I wish I may, I wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight."
But fans shouldn’t hold their breath for more of the same. In fact, last year, Luke revealed that "things are not going to be the same as they were in the animation." Talking about the live-action remake while on the D23 Inside Disney podcast, the actor also said that, "the storyline is very, very similar but there were some characters that [the director] was able to dramatically enhance, and the Coachman is one of those."
Speaking of Coachman himself, Luke said, "I get to use all of my musical theater experience and skills in this character. I can't tell you too much because I want it to be a surprise, but there are some really wonderful gifts that he gave me as an actor with the character."
Luke happens to be well-versed in all things Disney. The actor starred as Gaston in the 2017 live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast opposite Emma Watson's Belle.
Fans who have been anticipating the debut of the modern Pinocchio film have taken to social media to express their delight (and, for some, concern) at the new trailer.
"Of course Tom Hanks is in this movie," one user wrote.
"Hoping this is as amazing as it looks," yet another commented.
"Now THIS is a must! omg omg omg 😍😍," a third one noted.
Pinocchio is scheduled to premiere on Disney+ on September 8.
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