Laika's 'Wildwood': A Handcrafted Epic Fantasy Set to Enchant Audiences in 2026
Laika, the renowned studio behind stop-motion classics like “Coraline” and “ParaNorman,” is gearing up for a comeback after the disappointment of their last release, “Missing Link.” As they prepare to release their latest stop-motion film, “Wildwood,” they have announced that Fathom Entertainment will handle the U.S. theatrical distribution, with FilmNation Entertainment managing international sales.
“Wildwood” is set to hit theaters nationwide on October 23, 2026, promising audiences a handcrafted epic fantasy that delves into a secret and perilous world. The story follows a girl on a daring mission to save her baby brother, leading her into a forbidden forest teeming with enchanted creatures, unlikely allies, and formidable foes.
The star-studded voice cast of “Wildwood” includes Carey Mulligan, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Jacob Tremblay, Mahershala Ali, and many more. Laika’s chief marketing and operations officer, David Burke, emphasized the studio’s unique approach to bringing the film to audiences, tailored to the specific needs and ambitions of the project.
President and CEO of Laika, Travis Knight, who also directed “Wildwood,” described the film as a celebration of artistry and craftsmanship, highlighting the importance of handcrafted storytelling in a digital age. The studio’s Live Action subsidiary is also busy with various projects in the pipeline, including adaptations of bestselling novels and original scripts.
Laika’s collaboration with Fathom Entertainment and FilmNation Entertainment for the distribution of “Wildwood” marks a significant milestone in the studio’s resurgence in the film industry. With a lineup of diverse projects on the horizon, Laika is poised to captivate audiences with their unique storytelling and visual artistry.