Wildwood (2026)

Laika Studios has put out some imaginative films over the years. A few that I love include Kubo and the Two Strings, Corpse Bride, and Coraline. What I’ve always admired about them is their use of stop motion animation and how they bring their stories to life. As this neuro-freak will tell you, I was very much looking forward to seeing how they would do that when I went to see Wildwood. I’ve been waiting to see this film for months when I heard about it, and now that I’ve finally gotten the chance catch it on the big screen, I can say that this was unquestionably, Laika’s masterpiece. I haven’t felt so invested in an animated film like this in quite a while and I can safely say that I sure as hell have never seen one like it before. From what I’ve learned, this movie took 16 years to make and I can understand why. Laika has always taken their stories seriously and all the heart and soul that they put into them is extremely clear here. Every movement is impeccable and every scene is beyond exhilarating. I have more to add to this adventurous and daring tale, so let’s head deep into the woods and see what magical yet deadly surprises are in store for us.

     Based on the novel by Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis, the film tells the story of a teenage girl named Prue McKeel (Peyton Elizabeth Lee) and her classmate Curtis (Jacob Tremblay) as they set off on a journey into the forest outside Portland, Oregon to save her abducted infant brother. I don’t think my repetitive crazy ass needs to describe how much I love movie experiences where I feel like I’m being transported to another world, because this one did exactly that. The worldbuilding was incredible here and it kept me wondering where the story would take me next. It was well told and director Travis Knight and his insanely talented team pulled it off. I will say, what pisses me off more than any social misunderstanding is how this movie is struggling at the box office. When I went and saw this on the XD screen, there wasn’t even a big crowd. Maybe it wasn’t advertised well but it deserves more attention than it’s been getting. Also, I think it’s important to mention that you probably shouldn’t bring your little ones to see this movie. It’s PG-13 for a reason and if you want a clear understanding that just because something is animated doesn’t always mean it’s for kids, then you’ll definitely get that message right here. There is so much to appreciate about this film. It has a talented voice cast that also includes Carey Mulligan, Tantoo Cardinal, Richard E. Grant, Jake Johnson, Maya Erskine, Marc Even Jackson, Charlie Day, Tom Waits, Angela Bassett, Awkwafina, Len Cariou, Jemaine Clement, Amandla Stenberg, and Mahershala Ali. The animation is beautiful. Every detail is unique and Laika truly brought their A game here. I’d say those 16 years were totally worth it because the final result was outstanding.

     I don’t want to spoil anything about this flick so I won’t say more. All I can add is that it needs to be seen despite its box office bomb. It pushes the boundaries of what an animated film can be and it has yet to be topped. Overall, I would have to give this cinematic and spellbinding fantasy a solid 10 out of 10. So, if you’re a fan of Laika’s work or if you’re in the mood for the next big adventure, then ignore the flop results and check it out on the biggest screen there is. An epic and riveting fantasy that is as dazzling as it is eerie.