LAIKA Studios, the stop-motion powerhouse behind Coraline and Kubo and the Two Strings, has finally given fans a chance to own their latest epic, Wildwood, in a stunning physical format. Preorders are now live for both a standard edition and a Limited Edition 4K SteelBook, courtesy of Shout! Studios. While an exact release date hasn't been announced yet, collectors can lock in their copies now.
Wildwood has been a labor of love for LAIKA, with development spanning 15 years before it hit theaters. The film, an adaptation of the beloved novel by Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis, has been met with near-universal acclaim. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts a remarkable 99% critic score from 124 reviews and a 97% audience rating, cementing its status as a modern animation classic. Critics have been especially effusive, with Collider's Aidan Kelley calling it LAIKA's "masterpiece," praising its breathtaking sequences and hand-crafted artistry.
While the film didn't dominate the box office out of the gate, its reputation has only grown since release. The story, adapted by Chris Butler and directed by Travis Knight, follows a young girl's journey into a magical forest, blending dark fantasy with environmental themes. The hand-built sets and meticulously crafted puppets are a testament to LAIKA's dedication, and fans are eager to see how those details translate to home video.
Shout! Studios, known for their premium collector's editions, is handling the release. While specific special features haven't been revealed, the possibilities are tantalizing. Fans can likely expect behind-the-scenes documentaries, featurettes on the puppetry and set design, and perhaps commentary from Knight and Butler. The SteelBook cover art is also under wraps, but given the film's lush visuals, it's sure to be a showpiece.
This announcement comes on the heels of a strong year for animation, with Pixar's Hoppers and Toy Story 5 dominating the box office, and DreamWorks' Forgotten Island earning rave reviews. Yet Wildwood stands out as a unique achievement, a reminder of the painstaking craft that goes into stop-motion. For those who missed it in theaters or want to experience it again in the best possible quality, the 4K SteelBook is a must-have.
Preorders are available through major retailers, so fans should act fast to secure the limited edition. As we wait for more details, check out our coverage of Travis Knight's upcoming projects and the box office battle that Wildwood faced earlier this year. And if you're a steelbook enthusiast, you might also be interested in the recent 4K steelbook for The Gentlemen.
Stay tuned for updates on the release date and full specs. In the meantime, this is the perfect opportunity to add a piece of LAIKA's magic to your collection.
