“Wildwood” and the New Wave of Animated Storytelling

The BFI London Film Festival has announced an impressive lineup, but one title stands out: Laika’s upcoming animated feature “Wildwood”. The studio behind “Coraline”, “ParaNorman”, and “Kubo and the Two Strings” is known for its innovative approach to stop-motion animation.

Launched in 1985 by Phil Knight and his wife, Laika initially focused on dark, whimsical stories. However, with each subsequent film, the studio expanded its creative horizons. The success of “Kubo” marked a significant turning point, demonstrating that stop-motion could be both imaginative and commercially viable.

This breakthrough can be attributed in part to director Travis Knight’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries. As a former drummer for Sleigh Bells, Knight brought an unconventional perspective to his work at Laika. His experience as a musician likely influenced the film’s dynamic pacing and memorable soundtrack.

Laika’s “Walking on Sunshine” (2014) showcased the studio’s ability to tackle complex narratives with maturity and sensitivity. The film departed from traditional fairy tale tropes, opting for a more grounded approach to storytelling instead.

The success of “Kubo” was also due in part to Laika’s willingness to explore new themes and styles. By incorporating elements of Japanese folklore and culture, the studio provided audiences with a fresh take on traditional animation techniques. This innovative approach has not only set Laika apart from its competitors but has also paved the way for other studios to follow suit.

Launched around the same time as “Wildwood” are several other notable animated films, including “Ink”, “Club Kid”, and “Bunker”. These titles join a growing trend of incorporating real-world issues into animated narratives. Films like “Inside Out” and “Spirited Away” use fantastical worlds to explore complex emotions and social commentary.

The inclusion of more mature themes in animation is likely a response to changing audience expectations and the increasing diversity of animated storytelling. With the release of “Wildwood”, Laika appears poised to continue pushing the boundaries of what animated storytelling can achieve.

Also part of the London Film Festival lineup are “Ray Gunn” and several other titles, including “La Bola Negra” and “Wild Horse Nine”. These films join a diverse range of narratives that explore new themes and styles. As the festival approaches, audiences will have the opportunity to experience these innovative stories firsthand.

The release of “Wildwood” comes at an interesting time, when animated films are being reevaluated for their relevance to contemporary issues. With this film, Laika seems poised to join the ranks of “Kubo” and “Walking on Sunshine”, cementing its reputation as a studio that consistently challenges its audience.