On the second day of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), a scheduling glitch limited my film viewings to just two. However, I was fortunate enough to get an exclusive preview of one of my most eagerly awaited films of the year.
Even if the name Laika doesn’t ring a bell, you likely recognize its acclaimed stop-motion productions such as ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, and Kubo and the Two Strings. The studio has consistently raised the bar in animation, both technically and artistically. This brings us to their latest project, Wildwood, which is set to hit theaters next month. Here’s a quick overview:
At TIFF, members of the Laika team were present to discuss the innovative techniques behind Wildwood, particularly how this film achieves a more lifelike appearance than previous outings. One notable advancement is the animation process itself, which is exceptionally fluid in this new film. According to Brad Schiff, head of animation at Laika, “We’re in the midst of the evolution of an art form.” The introduction of digital cameras enables animators to view their work in real-time, facilitating smooth movements and eliminating any stuttering, unless chosen as a stylistic effect.
Moreover, the puppets in Wildwood have undergone significant enhancements. They incorporate an internal mechanism known as a “breather,” a feature first utilized in Laika’s 2019 production Missing Link. This allows all principal puppets to mimic breathing, enhancing their realism in the finished film.
While I caught a glimpse of some of these advancements in the film’s trailer, I also had the opportunity to view several clips, which—though still in development—were simply extraordinary. One scene featured a thrilling bicycle chase in a vibrant rendition of Portland, the film’s setting. The excitement and urgency were so palpable that it felt akin to a live-action sequence. In the film, a young girl named Prue embarks on an adventure to find her lost little brother in a fantastical, untamed wilderness. Clips included her escaping an extravagant mansion guarded by dogs distracted by their own tails, and soaring above breathtaking landscapes on the back of a gigantic bird. Wildwood showcases the intricate style and attention to detail that Laika is revered for, but what truly stood out was the lifelike motion.
For those interested in the behind-the-scenes specifics: Wildwood features 233 unique puppets (36 variations of Prue), brought to life by a dedicated team of 49 animators, and the entire production spanned 231 weeks. Audiences can catch it in theaters starting October 23.
On the films I did manage to see on my second day at TIFF, I found two remarkable features that couldn’t be more different. One is a whimsically dark musical, while the other is a heartwarming family film crafted using traditional animation. For further coverage of the festival, including insights on films like All of a Sudden and The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, check out my earlier reports.
Among the movies featured was Julián, produced by the Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon, known for Song of the Sea and Wolfwalkers. The narrative follows seven-year-old Julián, who, while living in Brooklyn with his grandmother during his father’s work trip, becomes enchanted with the idea of participating in a vibrant mermaid parade. His flamboyant spirit often clashes with his grandmother’s more conservative views, and after facing bullying for wearing a mermaid costume, Julián retreats inward. The film beautifully encapsulates themes of self-acceptance and individuality, told with vibrant passion and likely to resonate with audiences.
Another intriguing film is Stuffed, a quirky love story about an eccentric taxidermist and her companion who agrees to sacrifice his life to fulfill her dream of creating a human taxidermy piece. While it carries echoes of Sweeney Todd, it has a far more tender heart. Barrie (played by Harry Melling) lives a mundane life, working at a sandwich factory while nurturing dreams of being remembered. His connection with Araminta (played by Jodie Comer), who is surrounded by taxidermied animals, leads to a series of complicated yet heartfelt endeavors. Despite its morbid premise, Stuffed is replete with warmth, humor, and emotional depth.
Editor’s Take
The evolution of animation techniques showcased in Wildwood signifies a landmark moment in the industry, enhancing both storytelling and character development. As animation continues to blend realism and imaginative worlds, audiences can expect richer and more immersive experiences. This trend represents a promising pathway for filmmakers and studios alike, as they explore the vast potential of animated storytelling.
Source: www.theverge.com
