๐ฌ In-Depth Cinematic Critique & Analysis
THE BEST ACTORS EDITORIAL EXCLUSIVELaika Studios’ Groundbreaking Stop-Motion Masterpiece
Oregon-based stop-motion animation masters Laika (Coraline, Kubo and the Two Strings) return with their most ambitious production to date: Wildwood. Directed by Laika president Travis Knight and spanning an unprecedented 131 minutes, it is the longest, most technically elaborate stop-motion feature ever filmed.
The Impassable Wilderness
Adapted from the bestselling fantasy novel by Colin Meloy (lead singer of The Decemberists) and illustrated by Carson Ellis, the story unfolds just beyond the city limits of Portland, Oregon. When seventh-grader Prue McKeel’s baby brother is carried into the forbidden forest by a murder of crows, Prue and her classmate Curtis must venture into the Impassable Wildernessโa hidden, mystical realm known as Wildwood.
There, they discover a warring world of anthropomorphic animals, tree bandits, and dark woodland despots led by the sinister Dowager Governess (voiced with chilling brilliance by Carey Mulligan). Alongside mystic bird warriors (Mahershala Ali) and woodland monarchs (Angela Bassett), Prue must navigate political intrigue and dark magic to reunite her family.
A Feat of Pure Artistry
Combining tens of thousands of hand-crafted physical puppet faces with groundbreaking digital set extensions, Wildwood established itself as an instant animation classic for audiences of all ages upon its late October theatrical release.
