Yonas Kibreab, a rising star recognized for his work in 'Elio,' is embarking on a significant new venture, taking on both a leading voice role and an executive producer credit for the highly anticipated animated feature, 'Pinocchio & the Water of Life.' This unique adaptation promises a fresh, steampunk-infused perspective on the beloved wooden puppet's journey. Meanwhile, the film's production, led by Victor Lakisov and a talented voice cast, underscores a collaborative artistic vision, aiming to deliver a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience that breathes new life into a timeless narrative. The blend of classic storytelling with a modern aesthetic, coupled with Kibreab's enthusiastic involvement, sets the stage for a compelling and innovative animated work that seeks to captivate contemporary audiences while honoring its literary origins.
A Fresh Voice for a Classic Tale
Yonas Kibreab, whose talent has recently shone in 'Elio,' is now stepping into a pivotal role for the independent animated movie 'Pinocchio & the Water of Life.' Beyond lending his voice to the iconic character, Kibreab is also taking on executive producer responsibilities, a significant step for the young actor. The film presents a reimagined, steampunk-influenced version of the classic story, focusing on Pinocchio's journey to transform into a real boy. He embarks on a crucial mission alongside his sidekick, Coot, to liberate fellow puppets from the clutches of the malevolent Faustino, who capitalizes on their destruction through live-streamed pay-per-view events.
This adaptation, crafted by director Victor Lakisov and screenwriters Mark DeCarlo and Ryan Rowe, draws inspiration from Carlo Collodi's original 1883 creation, 'The Adventures of Pinocchio.' Kibreab expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the exceptional animation quality and praising Lakisov's artistic direction. His active involvement as an executive producer signifies a deep commitment to the film's creative process, underscoring his belief in its potential. The ensemble voice cast for the feature includes esteemed talents such as James Hong, Fred Tatasciore, Rob Paulsen, Maurice LaMarche, Tom Kenny, Phil LaMarr, Candi Milo, and Yeni Alvarez, enriching the production with diverse vocal performances. Currently in post-production, 'Pinocchio & the Water of Life' is targeting a 2025 release through Asymmetric Studios, promising an inventive and engaging cinematic experience for viewers.
The Artistic Vision Behind the Project
The decision to cast Yonas Kibreab in 'Pinocchio & the Water of Life' was driven by his proven ability to bring depth and nuance to animated roles, as evidenced by his titular performance in 'Elio.' Despite 'Elio's' modest box office reception, it garnered critical acclaim, establishing Kibreab as a notable presence in the animation landscape. His previous work, including roles in 'Sweettooth' and 'Obi-Wan Kenobi,' further demonstrates his versatility and growing career trajectory in the entertainment industry.
Kibreab views 'Pinocchio & the Water of Life' as a profound passion project, drawing parallels between its emotional depth and the qualities that resonated with him in 'Elio.' He describes the film as distinctly magical and unexpected, emphasizing his immense pride in contributing to its realization. The unique steampunk aesthetic adopted for this rendition sets it apart from traditional interpretations, offering a fresh visual and narrative appeal. The film's creative team is committed to delivering a product that not only entertains but also evokes a sense of wonder and novelty. With post-production underway and a 2025 release on the horizon, the collaboration between Kibreab, director Victor Lakisov, and the distinguished voice ensemble is poised to bring a truly memorable and innovative animated story to global audiences, promising an experience that is both artistically ambitious and deeply engaging.