Every journey has a sequel, and every family has a story to tell.
did you remember that movie?
This summer, nearly two decades after the original Little Miss Sunshine charmed audiences and became a cultural phenomenon, the beloved Hoover family returns in Little Miss Sunshine II: The Road Ahead. Directed by the original filmmaking duo Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, this heartfelt and hilarious sequel takes the quirky family on a brand-new adventure that promises to deliver the same mix of humor, chaos, and emotional depth that made the 2006 classic an instant favorite.
Anchored by Academy Award® nominee Abigail Breslin, reprising her role as Olive Hoover, and joined by an all-star returning cast including Steve Carell, Toni Collette, and Paul Dano, The Road Ahead explores the next chapter in the Hoover family’s journey. This time, Olive, now in her 20s, is at a crossroads in her life, and the family must come together once again to help her navigate the challenges of adulthood. Also starring acclaimed actors like Alan Arkin (in a touching tribute to Grandpa through flashbacks and memories), the film introduces a new generation of humor and heart to the Little Miss Sunshine legacy.
Set five years after Olive’s college graduation, the story begins with her struggling to find her place in the world. When a surprise opportunity arises for Olive to mentor a group of young girls in a regional talent competition, she reluctantly agrees, but only under one condition: the entire Hoover family must come along for the ride. What starts as a simple road trip quickly spirals into a chaotic, emotional, and laugh-out-loud journey as the family revisits old wounds, discovers new truths, and learns that the road ahead is never as straightforward as it seems.
The film’s backdrop is a stunning desert highway at golden hour, with the iconic yellow VW van making its triumphant return. The van, now slightly aged but still vibrant, serves as both a literal and metaphorical vehicle for the family’s growth and connection. The warm, nostalgic cinematography by Tim Suhrstedt (who also worked on the original film) captures the beauty of the open road while reflecting the emotional warmth of the story.
Abigail Breslin shines as Olive, now a confident yet vulnerable young woman grappling with the pressures of adulthood. Steve Carell reprises his role as Frank, Olive’s uncle, who brings his signature dry humor and wisdom to the journey. Toni Collette and Paul Dano return as Sheryl and Dwayne, each navigating their own personal challenges while supporting Olive. The film also pays homage to Alan Arkin’s unforgettable Grandpa, whose spirit lives on through the family’s memories and a few heartfelt surprises.
The screenplay, penned by original writer Michael Arndt, masterfully balances humor and heart, delivering sharp, witty dialogue and poignant moments that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The film’s score, composed by Mychael Danna and featuring contributions from DeVotchKa, blends whimsical melodies with emotional undertones, perfectly complementing the story’s tone.
Little Miss Sunshine II: The Road Ahead is produced by Albert Berger and Ron Yerxa, longtime collaborators of the franchise, and executive produced by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. The film is a Fox Searchlight Pictures production, continuing the studio’s tradition of championing heartfelt, character-driven stories.
With its mix of nostalgia, humor, and emotional depth, Little Miss Sunshine II: The Road Ahead is poised to capture the hearts of a new generation while delighting fans of the original. The Hoover family’s journey reminds us that life’s imperfections are what make it beautiful, and that sometimes, the road ahead is the greatest adventure of all.
Coming Summer 2025.
