Netflix’s Sci-Fi Film Allen Sets November 12 Release Date

An alien returns to Earth with a potentially world-changing secret in the trailer for Netflix’s upcoming science-fiction movie Allen.

The film follows Petey (T.J. Power), who struggles with adulthood two decades after his childhood friend, an alien named Allen, mysteriously disappeared. When Allen unexpectedly returns to Earth, Petey initially sees his arrival as a dream come true. However, that excitement begins to change when he discovers that his old friend is hiding a secret that could change the world.

Netflix’s newly released trailer begins with an adult Petey sending a signal into space via satellite, hoping to bring Allen back. As he waits, Petey revisits recordings of their childhood adventures together. When his family questions why he cannot move on and grow up, he responds, “Why? The best thing that ever happened to me already happened.” He later looks toward the sky and desperately asks, “Why won’t you come back?”

His wish finally comes true when Allen arrives in a glowing spaceship.

Although the trailer does not reveal Allen’s secret, the story of a childhood friendship with an alien that resumes decades later draws comparisons to E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Steven Spielberg never made a sequel to the beloved film, but Allen explores a similar hypothetical scenario: Elliot growing up and reuniting with his alien friend 20 years later.

However, the comparison may be less fitting if Allen’s secret involves manipulating Petey or preparing an alien invasion. Unlike the seemingly benevolent E.T., Allen could have a more dangerous agenda. The trailer suggests that his secret carries serious consequences, although its true nature and potential impact remain unknown.

Despite the similarities to E.T., neither Spielberg nor Amblin is involved in Allen. The film is produced by Ludo Studio, the Australian production company best known for the animated series Bluey. The project also demonstrates the studio’s work in live-action filmmaking. Set in Queensland, Australia, the movie brings its alien story to an Australian setting.

Allen’s appearance also differs considerably from E.T.’s familiar design. Instead, the character bears a closer resemblance to Paul, the alien featured in Simon Pegg and Nick Frost’s 2011 comedy of the same name. Allen’s look also shares some visual similarities with Dobby, the house-elf from the Harry Potter movies.

Alongside T.J. Power as Petey, the cast includes Charlotte Nicdao as Carly, Emily Barclay as Sarah, Benedict Hardie as Rory, and Josh Helman as Jaden. Jeffrey Walker and Daley Pearson co-directed the film, with Pearson and Sophie Miller co-writing the screenplay.