The Pixar film is the belated sequel to 2004’s The Incredibles, which focuses on two former superheroes raising their superpowered kids at a time when costumed heroes are outlawed.
The first movie focused mostly on husband Bob Parr/Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson), and explores how his midlife crisis and desire to relive his glory days affects both him and the family; in the sequel, however, it’s wife Helen/Elastigirl (Holly Hunter) who is taking the lead, becoming the face of the movement to bring superheroes back.
The TV spot mostly consists of material already released online: a sort of fake dedication video to Edna Mode, a character voiced by director Brad Bird. A diminutive woman who acts like a cross between a fashion designer and a mad scientist, she designs superhero costumes to be both stylish and functional (by which we mean “bullet-proof”), and had a small but important role in the first film.
The video mostly consists of real-life models and fashion industry insiders praising her as if she were a real person, but also includes some new scenes. Here, we see Helen trying on her new superhero costume, which is mostly black and gray, with some dark red highlights. “I’m not all… dark and angsty!” she complains. “I’m Elastigirl!”
“Did Edna design this?” Bob asks.
No, it turns out; this was designed by one “Alexander Gehlbachi,” who from context seems to be some sort of rival to Edna, who is not at all pleased when she learns that her old friends are using another designer.
“Elastigirl’s super-suit is by Gehlbachi?! Explain yourself!” she demands.
The TV spot ends with Edna talking to Bob, and telling him that henceforth she will be “Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone’s EXCLUSIVE designer, throughout the known universe and until the end of time.” (Frozone, played by Samuel L. Jackson, is a family friend who will also be reprising his role in the movie.)
Incredibles 2 is one of the most anticipated family films of the year, and will be released on June 15. Until then fans will be waiting to see what roles Edna, and perhaps this new “Alexander Gehlbachi” character, will play in the story.
