Laika's 'Wildwood' To Open AFI Fest 2026

The American Film Institute (AFI) announced on Wednesday that Laika's forthcoming stop-motion animated feature, titled 'Wildwood,' has been chosen as the opening-night film for the 40th edition of AFI Fest. This significant cinematic event is scheduled to launch in October. The specific screening date for 'Wildwood' at AFI Fest is set for October 21, which will also serve as the film's United States premiere. Prior to its U.S. debut, 'Wildwood' is slated for its world premiere on October 11 at the London Film Festival. The film is produced by Laika, a renowned stop-motion animation studio celebrated for its distinctive visual style and storytelling. Laika has previously produced critically acclaimed films such as 'Coraline,' 'ParaNorman,' 'The Boxtrolls,' and 'Missing Link,' all of which have garnered critical praise and awards. The selection of 'Wildwood' to open AFI Fest highlights its anticipated artistic merit and its position as a major release within the animated film landscape. AFI Fest is a prestigious film festival that showcases a diverse range of cinematic works, from independent features to major studio productions, and serves as a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers. The festival typically draws significant attention from industry professionals, critics, and film enthusiasts. The 40th edition of AFI Fest is expected to continue this tradition, offering a comprehensive program of film screenings, Q&A sessions, and industry panels. The opening night film traditionally sets the tone for the festival and often generates considerable buzz. Laika's involvement suggests a focus on high-quality animation and narrative depth for the opening selection. The film 'Wildwood' is based on the best-selling children's novel of the same name by Colin Meloy, lead singer of the band The Decemberists, and Carson Ellis. The novel, published in 2017, is set in the fictional town of Portland, Oregon, and follows a young girl named Prue who is drawn into a hidden, magical world. The adaptation into a stop-motion feature by Laika indicates a commitment to bringing this fantastical story to life with intricate detail and artistry, characteristic of the studio's work. The narrative is expected to explore themes of adventure, courage, and the discovery of the extraordinary within the ordinary. The involvement of Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis in the creative process, even if primarily as the source material authors, suggests a fidelity to the spirit of the original work. The specific details regarding the film's director and main voice cast have not been fully elaborated in this announcement, but Laika's consistent track record suggests a high caliber of talent involved. The anticipation for 'Wildwood' is further amplified by its prestigious opening slot at AFI Fest, a festival known for its discerning selections and its role in shaping the awards season conversation. The film's journey from literary success to a world premiere at the London Film Festival and then a U.S. premiere at AFI Fest underscores its significant cultural and artistic positioning. The broader implications of this announcement extend to the continued viability and artistic ambition of stop-motion animation as a medium for feature-length storytelling, a niche that Laika has consistently championed and excelled in.