We review Laika's "Wildwood" in 6 words
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A fantasy adventure story for the ages. Image: Courtesy of Laika
After years of production — and plenty of local anticipation — Portland's big-screen stop-motion moment is here: "Wildwood" from Hillsboro-based Laika Studios is officially in theaters.
Why it matters: We deserve a little time in the limelight after years of grabbing national headlines for all the wrong reasons, don't you think?
Catch up quick: Based on the 2011 novel by Decemberists frontman Colin Meloy, the film follows Portland teenager Prue, who ventures into a vast enchanted forest — not unlike Forest Park — to rescue her baby brother after he's kidnapped by a murder of crows (those things are dangerous).
- Along her journey, she encounters talking animals, bandits, dark magic and a world on the brink of war.
Behind the scenes: Directed by Laika CEO Travis Knight, son of Nike co-founder Phil Knight, "Wildwood" required more than 1,000 artists, 230 puppets and 132 sets to bring it to life — all without generative AI.
- Plus: Move over, Carey Mulligan, Angela Bassett and Mahershala Ali (who voice some of the movie's characters): Portland is the real star here.
- There are cameos by Powell's, Pittock Mansion, the St. Johns Bridge, Voodoo Doughnut and even the Benson Bubblers.
The Axios Portland team went to see it opening weekend. Here are our six-word reviews:
- 🫣 Meira's take: I think this should've been R-rated.
- 🌲 Kale's take: An ode to Oregon, perfectly executed.
- ✨ Our managing editor Hadley's take: Exhilarating animation. Magical storytelling. Worth it.
The bottom line: Surprisingly dark and violent (take note, parents), it was overall a feast for the eyes and a thrilling picture touching on themes of grief, power and growing up.