Voicemails for Isabelle (2026)
Voicemails for Isabelle is a 2026 American romantic comedy film written and directed by Leah McKendrick. The film was released on Netflix on June 19, 2026, and quickly gained attention for its emotional storytelling mixed with light romance and humour. It stars Zoey Deutch, Nick Robinson, Harry Shum Jr., Lukas Gage, and Nick Offerman in key roles. The story combines grief, love, and self-discovery, focusing on how people try to heal after loss while unexpectedly finding new connections in life.
The film stands out for its unique concept: a woman unknowingly forming a bond with a stranger through voicemails meant for her late sister. It blends emotional depth with a modern romantic setup, making it feel both heartfelt and relatable.
The story follows Jill, an aspiring pastry chef living in San Francisco. She works under a strict and abusive chef while trying to build her dream career. Jill shares a very close bond with her sister Isabelle, who suffers from cystic fibrosis and lives in Austin. Jill constantly leaves voice messages for Isabelle, updating her about her daily struggles, dating experiences, and hopes for the future.
After Isabelle suddenly passes away, Jill is devastated but continues leaving voicemails on her sister’s old phone number as a way of coping with grief. However, she is unaware that Isabelle’s number has been reassigned to Wes, a real estate agent based in Austin.
Wes unexpectedly begins listening to Jill’s emotional voicemails. At first, he is curious, but over time, he becomes deeply invested in her life. He learns about her difficult workplace, her failed romantic experiences, and her dream of becoming a baker. Although Wes realizes that Isabelle has died, he continues listening and grows emotionally attached to Jill, even against the advice of his friends.
As Jill struggles in her personal life, including a disappointing romantic experience and workplace frustrations, Wes eventually meets her in person during a trip to San Francisco. The two bond over their shared Texas background and slowly develop a romantic connection. Jill shows Wes around the city, and they grow closer through shared moments, conversations, and emotional support.
However, their relationship becomes complicated when Jill discovers that Wes has been receiving her voicemails meant for Isabelle. Feeling betrayed and hurt, she distances herself from him. At the same time, Jill loses access to the voicemails due to a phone change, which deepens her emotional struggle. Eventually, Jill decides to take control of her life. After quitting her job due to unfair treatment, she uses her sister’s college fund to start a dessert food truck called Jill and Izzy’s. The business becomes a fresh beginning for her, supported by her friends and former coworker.
Meanwhile, Wes tries to reconnect with Jill and finds a way to restore the lost voicemails. On New Year’s Eve, he leaves her a message explaining his actions and invites her to meet at their favourite taco restaurant. Jill eventually receives her voicemails again and decides to meet him. The two reconcile and share a heartfelt reunion.
In the final moments, Jill continues her journey with her food truck while Wes remains part of her life. Both characters find healing in their own way, and the film ends on a hopeful note with them sharing a meaningful moment together.
Zoey Deutch plays Jill, delivering an emotional performance as a young woman dealing with grief and ambition. Nick Robinson plays Wes, the man who unknowingly becomes part of Jill’s private world. Harry Shum Jr. Appears as Andy, Wes’s friend who offers guidance. Lukas Gage and Nick Offerman also play supporting roles that add depth to the story and its emotional layers.
Voicemails for Isabelle works best when it focuses on emotional honesty and character development. The film presents grief in a realistic and sensitive way, showing how loss does not follow a straight path. Jill’s character is well written, and Zoey Deutch brings both vulnerability and strength to the role.
The romantic storyline between Jill and Wes is handled with care, avoiding overly dramatic clichés. Instead, it builds slowly through shared emotional experiences. The idea of voicemails as a connection between two strangers adds a fresh twist to the typical romantic comedy format.
The film also highlights important themes such as healing, personal growth, and starting over. Jill’s journey from heartbreak and confusion to independence and entrepreneurship is inspiring and grounded. The supporting characters help move the story forward without overshadowing the main narrative.
Visually, the film captures San Francisco beautifully, using the city as a backdrop for emotional moments and character growth. The tone balances sadness and humour effectively, making the viewing experience engaging and heartfelt.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ciara Bravo
Nick Robinson
Zoey Deutch
