Laika’s latest animated feature, “Wildwood,” brings a richly detailed stop-motion adaptation of Colin Meloy’s 2011 fantasy novel to the screen, weaving a tale that balances intricate craftsmanship with an emotionally resonant narrative. Directed by Travis Knight and scripted by Chris Butler, the film follows Prue (voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee), a practical young girl living near Portland, Oregon, who embarks on a perilous journey into a mysterious forest after her baby brother, Mac, is abducted by a murder of crows.
The story expands as Prue teams up with a classmate, portrayed by Jacob Tremblay, venturing into the Impassable Wilderness—a fantastical realm populated by anthropomorphic animals, bandits, and a range of complex characters, including the grief-driven Dowager Empress Alexandra (Carey Mulligan) and the Avian Principality’s general (Angela Bassett). The characters become embroiled in a brewing conflict that threatens to erupt into war, culminating in a striking 11-minute battle sequence reminiscent of epic fantasy cinema.
“Wildwood” stands out for its meticulous world-building, evoking elements familiar to fans of Tolkien, “Coraline,” and “Narnia,” while maintaining a unique fantasy identity. The setting includes the detailed recreation of Portland landmarks such as Powell’s Books and Voodoo Doughnut, grounding the story with a sense of place. The stop-motion production involved over 230 puppets and 132 sets, with a heavy focus on naturalistic textures—from basalt and granite stones to various tree species—and finely crafted costumes. More than 142,000 replacement faces were used to provide highly expressive character animations, complemented by painterly lighting orchestrated by cinematographer Caleb Deschanel.
The film benefits from a voice cast that enhances its emotional depth. Carey Mulligan’s portrayal of the Dowager Empress adds nuance to what might otherwise be a standard villain, imbuing the character with a poignant humanity. Other notable performances include Mahershala Ali as the leader of the bandits Brendan, Awkwafina as Septima, and Richard E. Grant as Owl Rex.
Musically, Dario Marianelli’s score deftly shifts between moods, reflecting the contrast between the urban environment of Portland and the mystical forest. Additionally, Colin Meloy, the author of the original novel and lead singer of the indie rock band the Decemberists, contributes an original song that complements the film’s tone.
In an era dominated by digital animation and franchise reboots, “Wildwood” is distinguished by its painstaking handcrafted artistry and ambitious scope. The film’s painstaking attention to detail and heartfelt storytelling emphasize the magic hidden in the ordinary, mirroring Prue’s journey and inviting viewers to rediscover wonder in the natural world around them.