LAIKA Drops Epic 'Wildwood' Trailer Featuring Angela Bassett & Jacob Tremblay

LAIKA is back to spark another round of glorious animated nightmares and breathtaking fantasy worlds. The beloved stop-motion powerhouse behind iconic hits like *Coraline* and *ParaNorman* just dropped a brand-new look at its next big epic, *Wildwood*. Packed with stunning visuals and serious emotion, the newly released trailer gives moviegoers their clearest view yet of the dark enchanted realm waiting just beyond city borders. The upcoming feature adapts the bestselling fantasy book series written by The Decemberists frontman Colin Meloy and illustrated by Carson Ellis. The story centers on Prue McKeel, a relentless young girl voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee. After a sinister flock of crows abducts her baby brother and drags him into a mysterious, off-limits forest, Prue sets out on a high-stakes rescue mission. Joined by her awkward classmate Curtis, played by Jacob Tremblay, the duo plunges headfirst into a dangerous realm packed with magic and peril.

What is the Wildwood release date?

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Animation fans will not have to wait too much longer to take the journey into the enchanted unknown. Reports confirm that the film is officially slated to hit theaters on October 23 through Fathom Entertainment. Viewers can expect a visually stunning theatrical experience that builds on LAIKA's signature handmade animation style, blending intricate physical models with grand fantasy storytelling. Once inside the forbidden forest, Prue and Curtis encounter an array of extraordinary beasts, talking animals, and warring factions. Among the most commanding figures in the wilderness is the General, a towering golden eagle voiced by Oscar nominee Angela Bassett. Her authoritative presence adds massive star power to an already stacked cast navigating the chaotic woodland terrain.

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Who is directing the new LAIKA movie Wildwood?

Behind the scenes, the project reunites some of the creative minds behind the animation house's most acclaimed successes. Travis Knight, who previously directed *Kubo and the Two Strings*, serves as director and producer alongside producer Sam Wilson. The script was penned by longtime collaborator Chris Butler, while veteran cinematographer Caleb Deschanel helps bring the lush, textured look of the enchanted wilderness to life. With its dark fairytale atmosphere, stunning character design, and star-studded voice cast, LAIKA's latest effort looks poised to deliver another unforgettable theatrical adventure. Whether Prue has what it takes to save her brother and survive the forbidden woods will be revealed when the movie hits screens this fall.