Laika's ‘Wildwood’ is set to open the 40th edition of AFI Fest on October 21, 2026, marking its U.S. premiere as the latest arrival from the acclaimed studio.
Laika's animated feature, ‘Wildwood,’ will premiere as the opening film of the 40th edition of AFI Fest, presented by Canva, on October 21, 2026. This marks the U.S. premiere of the film, confirming Laika’s consistent presence in the animation landscape. According to Variety, the film showcases Laika’s relentless commitment to innovative storytelling.
Directed and produced by Travis Knight, Wildwood follows a young girl named Prue (voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee) on a heartfelt mission to rescue her baby brother from a murder of crows. Joined by her classmate Curtis (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), Prue embarks on a journey into a forbidden forest outside Portland, Oregon, inhabited by enchanted creatures and filled with daunting challenges. The film elegantly weaves a rich narrative tapestry exploring themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the power of friendship.
The voice cast features an exceptional lineup, including Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Angela Bassett, Awkwafina, Jake Johnson, Charlie Day, Amandla Stenberg, Jemaine Clement, Maya Erskine, Tantoo Cardinal, Tom Waits, and Richard E. Grant. This remarkable ensemble underscores Laika’s emphasis on high-quality storytelling and artistic excellence.
Running from October 21-25, 2026, AFI Fest is celebrated for its meticulously curated selection of premieres. Notable for including documentaries, world cinema, and short films, it serves as a significant platform for filmmakers. Bob Gazzale, President and CEO of AFI, expressed his honor to present Wildwood as the opening night film, emphasizing that the film invites audiences into a "handcrafted, endlessly imaginative world" necessary in today’s artistic landscape.
Travis Knight shared insights on the lengthy development journey of Wildwood, acknowledging that it took sixteen years to bring the film to fruition. He highlighted the dedication and artistry of hundreds of artists and craftspeople involved, expressing profound gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their work at AFI Fest. Knight praised AFI’s unwavering support for pioneering filmmaking, reiterating the film's celebration of imaginative storytelling and its relevance to contemporary audiences.
Moreover, Knight emphasized, "Sixteen years is a long time to carry a story with you. And yet, sometimes that’s what stories ask of the people who tell them. What a privilege it is to finally welcome others inside this strange and beautiful world."
The announcement of Wildwood as the opening film of AFI Fest signifies Laika's unwavering commitment to innovative animation and storytelling. This premiere serves as a crucial platform for the film, capturing the attention of critics and audiences alike. Given Laika’s established reputation for excellence in the animated feature space, Wildwood is anticipated to make a significant impact within the industry. Viewers can expect a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience, placing Wildwood among the must-see animated films of 2026.
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