Pokland-based animation studio Laika, renowned for its distinctive stop-motion techniques in films such as Coraline, has released a new family-friendly fantasy adventure titled Wildwood. The film is adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name by Carson Ellis and Colin Meloy, a member of the band The Decemberists. Chris Butler penned the screenplay, while Travis Knight, Laika’s lead animator, serves as director.
The narrative embraces a classic children’s quest structure, evoking the spirit of works by C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. It follows the journey of Prue, a 12-year-old girl voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee. Her parents, portrayed by Jake Johnson and Maya Erskine, are depicted as laid-back hippies who embrace natural forces and benign magic. The story is set in modern-day Portland, Oregon, a city affectionately satirized for its hipster culture and progressive signage, including a coffee shop named Dripster.
Central to the plot is the mythical Wildwood, an impassable forest wilderness bordering the city where talking animals, fairytale nobility, and strange beasts are said to reside, unnoticed by ordinary city dwellers. The film explores themes of secret worlds, wish-fulfillment, and the courage required to confront unknown powers that adults remain unaware of.
Prue’s ordinary life is interrupted when she is tasked with looking after her baby brother, Mac. During a walk through the city, she is joined by Curtis, a nerdy classmate voiced by Jacob Tremblay, who harbors a crush on her. The trailer also features a cameo of a Decemberists tour poster, acknowledging the musical connection behind the source material.
My kids love Coraline but not too scary. Does this seem appropriate for a family movie night?
Wait, did they really use stop-motion for a whole feature again? That takes incredible patience. Respect.
Portland satire is always fun. Definitely giving this a watch for the animation style alone!
Laika has such a unique aesthetic. I wonder if this story does justice to Ellis and Meloy’s complex book?
As a huge Decemberists fan, I am thrilled about the cameo! Hope the music fits the mood perfectly.