Laika's 'Wildwood' Trailer Highlights Ambitious Stop-Motion Fantasy

Key points

• The full trailer for 'Wildwood' was released on August 19, 2026, featuring a cover of Avicii's 'Wake Me Up.'
• The film is directed by Travis Knight and adapted from the 2011 novel by Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis.
• The story centers on Prue McKee, voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee, who enters the Impassable Wilderness to save her brother, Mac.
• The voice cast includes Carey Mulligan, Angela Bassett, Mahershala Ali, and Tom Waits.
• The film opens in theaters on October 23, 2026, distributed by Fathom Entertainment in the U.S.

Background

Laika is known for stop-motion animation, with previous works including 'Coraline' and 'Kubo and the Two Strings.' 'Wildwood' is the studio's first feature since 'The Missing Link' in 2019. The film is described as Laika's most ambitious project to date, featuring 136 sets and 231 practical puppets.

How outlets are covering it

Ars Technica highlights the visual quality of the trailer and the scale of the production, noting the 136 sets and 231 puppets. Gizmodo emphasizes the technical achievement of the stop-motion animation, comparing it to the impact of 'Toy Story' in 1995. Deadline focuses on the distribution details, noting the exclusive theatrical release through Fathom Entertainment and the film's opening at AFI Fest. Mashable draws a comparison to Jim Henson's 'Labyrinth,' noting the similar premise of a teenage girl saving her brother in a magical world.

Why it matters

The release of the 'Wildwood' trailer signals a significant return for Laika after a seven-year gap since their last feature. The film's ambitious scope and star-studded cast suggest a major push for the studio to reestablish its presence in the animation market. The exclusive theatrical release through Fathom Entertainment indicates a strategy to target a niche, premium audience rather than a wide mainstream release.

What to watch

The film will open in theaters on October 23, 2026, following its premiere at AFI Fest on October 21. The release will include premium formats such as 4DX, DBOX, and Dolby Cinema.