Bob Odenkirk’s Action Thriller ‘Normal’ Releases First Trailer

The explosive first trailer for the upcoming crime thriller Normal has arrived, solidifying Bob Odenkirk’s status as a modern action hero. Directed by Ben Wheatley and written by John Wick co-creator Derek Kolstad, the film stars Odenkirk as Sheriff Ulysses, whose peaceful posting in a Midwestern town erupts into violence, revealing a dark secret that turns everyone, including his own deputies, against him. Magnolia Pictures will release the film in theaters on April 17, 2026.

Trailer and Premiere Details

The newly released preview establishes a tense, high-stakes atmosphere as Odenkirk’s character is forced to rely on his wits and unexpected allies to survive a night of chaos that even involves the Yakuza. The cast also includes notable actors Henry Winkler and Lena Headey. Normal had its world premiere in September 2025 as part of the Midnight Madness program at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it was met with an enthusiastic reception from critics and audiences.

Critical Reception and Rotten Tomatoes Score

Following its festival debut, Normal has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, currently holding a “Fresh” rating of 83% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 23 reviews. Critics have praised the film’s unique blend of action, humor, and subversion of genre expectations.

• Joonatan Itkonen of Region Free awarded the film a 4/5, describing it as akin to “if Walter Hill directed Hot Fuzz and then added a whole helping of Tom & Jerry.”
• Tania Hussain of Collider gave it an 8/10, concluding that “when Odenkirk takes on an action role, things are anything but normal.”
• Danielle Solzman of Solzy at the Movies also rated it 4/5, hailing it as “Bloody, funny, and gleefully subversive” and proof that Odenkirk is an “unlikely, but entirely welcome, action star.”

What to Watch Next

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