A Shadowy Search in Manchester: The Finding Emily Trailer Unveiled

The digital landscape is buzzing following the arrival of the Finding Emily Trailer on the Universal Pictures UK YouTube channel. This first look at the upcoming romantic comedy introduces a chaotic yet heartfelt quest through the rain-slicked streets of Manchester.

Directed by Alicia MacDonald and written by Rachel Hirons, the film stars Angourie Rice (of Spider-Man and Mean Girls fame) and Spike Fearn (Alien: Romulus) as an unlikely duo caught in a web of mistaken identity and campus-wide hysteria.

As the footage reveals, what begins as a simple quest for a phone number quickly spiraling into a high-stakes search for a girl who might be more of an enigma than a memory.

When Is the Finding Emily Trailer Setting the Stage for Release?

According to verified reports from Focus Features and Universal Pictures, the film is slated for a staggered international rollout. UK audiences will be the first to join the search, followed by a late summer debut in the United States.

What Secrets Does the Finding Emily Trailer Reveal About the Plot?

The core of the narrative centers on Owen (Fearn), a "lovesick musician" who meets his dream girl, Emily, during a night out. However, a crucial error occurs: he is given the wrong phone number. To rectify the mistake, Owen enlists the help of a highly driven psychology student (Rice).

The trailer highlights several iconic Manchester landmarks, including:

• The Manchester Central Library

• Piccadilly Records

• The Northern Quarter

• Canal Street and the Gay Village

As the search intensifies, the duo sparks a "campus-wide frenzy" at the fictional Manchester City University. Interestingly, the footage suggests that the search for Emily becomes a catalyst for the two protagonists to examine their own failing ambitions and growing feelings for one another.

Who Are the Masterminds Behind This British Rom-Com?

While the stars are the face of the project, the creative pedigree behind the camera is significant. Alicia MacDonald, known for her work on The Outlaws and Flack, makes her feature directorial debut here.

The script is penned by Rachel Hirons, whose previous work on A Guide to Second Date Sex established her as a prominent voice in contemporary, awkward romantic storytelling.

Produced by industry titans Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title, the film carries the weight of a production house known for legendary hits like Notting Hill and Love Actually.

Some Closing Thoughts

The Finding Emily Trailer promises a refreshing blend of indie British charm and a classic "needle in a haystack" romantic premise.

By grounding the story in the vibrant, authentic atmosphere of Manchester, Universal Pictures UK seems to be positioning this film as the definitive summer rom-com of 2026.

Whether Owen finds the "real" Emily or discovers something more significant in the girl helping him search remains the mystery that will surely draw audiences to theaters this May.

So, what did you think of our first look at Finding Emily? Let us know in the comments section down below!