Laika's 'Wildwood' Sets New Stop-Motion Standards With Massive Scale and Star-Studded Cast

Key points

• The film opens in theaters on October 23, 2026, distributed by Fathom Entertainment in the U.S. and FilmNation Entertainment internationally.
• Directed by Travis Knight, 'Wildwood' is based on the 2011 novel by Colin Meloy, with a screenplay by Chris Butler.
• Production involved 136 locations, 231 practical puppets, and 54 hero characters, according to Laika's operations officer.
• The voice cast includes Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Angela Bassett, Awkwafina, and Jacob Tremblay.
• The story follows Prue and Curtis as they enter an enchanted forest near Portland, Oregon, to rescue Prue's brother from a murder of crows.

Background

Laika has previously produced Oscar-nominated stop-motion features such as 'Coraline,' 'ParaNorman,' 'The Boxtrolls,' 'Kubo and the Two Strings,' and 'The Missing Link.' 'Wildwood' is the studio's first new feature since 'The Missing Link' in 2019. Travis Knight previously directed the live-action 'Masters of the Universe' earlier in 2026.

How outlets are covering it

Gizmodo emphasizes the visual shock value of the trailer, comparing the advancement to the release of 'Toy Story' in 1995, and notes the film's 'decidedly adult' tone. Deadline highlights the logistical scale, noting the film may be the longest stop-motion feature ever made, and details the premium format releases including 4DX and DBOX. Variety focuses on the emotional depth of Carey Mulligan's role as a grieving mother and the film's potential for Academy Award recognition. IndieWire frames the film as a fantasy adventure in the vein of 'Narnia,' noting the score by Dario Marianelli and cinematography by Caleb Deschanel.

Why it matters

The release of 'Wildwood' demonstrates the continued viability and technical evolution of stop-motion animation in the modern era. Its large-scale production and high-profile distribution strategy suggest a significant investment in the medium by Laika and Fathom Entertainment, potentially influencing future animation budgets and audience expectations for non-CGI animated films.

What to watch

The film will open at AFI Fest on October 21 before its wide theatrical release on October 23. Industry observers will monitor its box office performance and critical reception to gauge the commercial viability of large-scale stop-motion features in the current market.