The Incomer
The Incomer is a 2026 British comedy film written and directed by Louis Paxton and produced by Shirley O'Connor and Emily Gotto, starring Domhnall Gleeson, Gayle Rankin, Grant O'Rourke, Emun Elliott, Michelle Gomez, and John Hannah. The film had its world premiere in the Sundance Film Festival's NEXT section in 2026, where it won the NEXT Innovator Award.
Premise
On a remote Scottish island, siblings Isla and Sandy have lived alone for 30 years since their parents disappeared, surviving by hunting seabirds, speaking to mythical creatures, and defending their home from dreaded "incomers". Their world is upended when Daniel, an awkward land recovery coordinator, arrives to relocate them to the mainland on orders from his intimidating boss Roz. Isla is also haunted by visions of a Finman, a mythical creature who tries to lure her into the sea.Cast
- Domhnall Gleeson as Daniel
- Gayle Rankin as Isla
- Grant O'Rourke as Sandy
- Emun Elliott as Calum
- Michelle Gomez as Rose
- John Hannah
Production
Director Louis Paxton said the film was inspired by his family's Orcadian heritage and a visit to Swona, an island in the Pentland Firth abandoned in the 1970s, where he learned about the brother and sister who had lived there. He described the film as "heartfelt, odd and absurdly funny" and cited the films Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Step Brothers as influences.The film was produced by Shirley O'Connor and Emily Gotto under the UK banner Pilea Pictures, with Wendy Griffin as co-producer. Backers include the BFI, Screen Scotland, Head Gear, and Ireland's Inevitable Pictures. Executive producers include Trevor Noah and musician Moby through their respective companies Day Zero Productions and Little Walnut. Principal photography took place in Caithness and various Scottish Highlands locations in summer 2025.