Laika’s films always push the boundaries of what’s possible for stop-motion animation, and the jaw-dropping artistry on display in *Wildwood* sees them doing it again.
The film’s immersive quality often makes viewers forget they are watching stop-motion animation, a feat heightened by its array of magical elements. Fans of portal fantasies like *Spirited Away* or *The Chronicles of Narnia* will find familiar themes, yet Knight’s confident storytelling keeps the audience engaged. The film’s narrative momentum is bolstered by high stakes—losses are significant, setbacks matter, and characters face real danger, earning the film its PG-13 rating.
However, character development occasionally falters. Prue, despite being a relatable modern teenager, sometimes fades into the background amid the film’s elaborate world-building. While Peyton Elizabeth Lee’s performance brings energy and charm, the script leans heavily on her quest to rectify past mistakes, offering little depth beyond her immediate goals. This might be intentional, allowing young viewers to project themselves onto her character, yet it leaves her less memorable compared to the vibrant world around her.
Curtis, on the other hand, embarks on a predictable “zero to hero” journey, with Tremblay injecting humor into his role. His storyline, which diverges from Prue’s for much of the film, slows the pacing at times, making the 131-minute runtime feel occasionally drawn out. Meanwhile, Alexandra, a governess in the South Wood played by Carey Mulligan, emerges as a complex antagonist driven by grief. Although her motivations are compelling, the film misses opportunities to deepen her character through earlier narrative connections.
The craft on display from Laika and director Travis Knight through this story of grief and growing up is commendable, and *Wildwood*’s massive sense of both scale and whimsy are constant joys.
Despite these narrative hiccups, *Wildwood* is buoyed by an outstanding supporting cast of magical creatures and heroes. From Mahershala Ali and Amandla Stenberg’s dynamic bandits to Richard E. Grant’s regal Owl Rex, each character adds richness to the story. The voice cast, including Charlie Day and Tom Waits, infuses personality into each role, enhancing the film’s vibrant sense of place.
The film’s action sequences are expertly choreographed, beginning with the thrilling abduction of Mac by Alexandra’s crows and escalating into a series of inventive battles and chases. Knight skillfully balances frenetic camera work with grounded moments, supported by Dario Marianelli’s dynamic score, which shifts between folk strings and modern guitar to match the film’s diverse environments.
In summary, *Wildwood* stands as a captivating fantasy epic, showcasing Laika’s unparalleled craftsmanship in stop-motion animation. While the character arcs of Prue, Curtis, and Alexandra occasionally lack depth, the film’s visual grandeur and authentic performances create an engaging experience. *Wildwood* is a testament to the power of animation to transport audiences into a world where whimsy and peril exist hand in hand.
Article Source: www.ign.com
