Wildwood, the latest offering from acclaimed stop-motion animation studio Laika, is a visually arresting and ambitious fantasy epic. Adapted from the first novel in Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis' Wildwood Chronicles, the film distinguishes itself as the longest stop-motion animated feature to date, a testament to director Travis Knight's dedication to world-building and intricate craftsmanship. The movie arrives in theaters on October 23.
The narrative follows 13-year-old Prue McKeel and her classmate Curtis as they venture into the titular magical forest to rescue Prue's kidnapped baby brother. As they navigate this enchanted realm, they encounter a complex tapestry of societies and creatures, rendered with Laika's signature breathtaking artistry. The film excels in its immersive quality, blurring the lines between its fantastical elements and the painstaking stop-motion technique, creating a world that feels deeply realized and astonishingly detailed.
While the film draws on familiar portal fantasy tropes reminiscent of Spirited Away or The Chronicles of Narnia, Knight imbues the story with a surprising darkness and high stakes. The consequences of the characters' actions are keenly felt, with losses and setbacks carrying genuine weight, justifying its PG-13 rating. However, this narrative ambition sometimes leads to story stumbles. Prue, despite a dynamic performance from Peyton Elizabeth Lee, can feel less defined than the world she inhabits, often serving primarily as a vehicle for the plot's progression. Curtis's "zero to hero" arc, while capably handled by Jacob Tremblay, involves plot detours that occasionally slow the film's pacing, particularly during his time away from Prue.
Alexandra, a governess in the South Wood portrayed by Carey Mulligan, offers a compelling exploration of grief and its dark consequences. Mulligan's performance is a standout, though the attempts to draw parallels between her character and Prue's parents feel underdeveloped. The film's most evocative imagery often stems from these gothic touches, providing a welcome contrast to the vibrant, life-filled landscapes.
Where Wildwood truly shines is in its supporting cast. A roster of notable actors lends their voices to a menagerie of magical creatures and heroes, including Mahershala Ali, Amandla Stenberg, Richard E. Grant, Tom Waits, Charlie Day, Angela Bassett, and Awkwafina. These performances inject significant personality into the film, with the animal characters' instincts adding a layer of authenticity to the meticulously crafted world.
The action sequences are expertly staged, from an early kidnapping and chase to the more elaborate conflicts within Wildwood. Knight masterfully balances grounded coverage with more kinetic camera work, enhancing the excitement and danger. Dario Marianelli's score, a lively orchestral composition with folk and modern guitar influences, further supports the film's dynamic energy.
Ultimately, Wildwood is a remarkable achievement in stop-motion animation. Its handmade beauty and expansive world are constant sources of joy. While the individual character arcs, especially Prue's, do not always match the visual splendor or narrative ambition, the emotional authenticity brought by the talented voice cast helps to overcome these shortcomings, making it a commendable and engaging fantasy epic.