Laika's long-awaited fantasy epic Wildwood hasn't even hit theaters yet, but it's already making waves—and for all the right reasons. The film currently sits at a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 16 reviews, and critics are falling over themselves to praise it. So, is Wildwood actually good? The early consensus is a resounding yes.
Directed by Travis Knight, Wildwood is based on the beloved children's novel by Colin Meloy and illustrator Carson Ellis. Laika acquired the rights way back in 2011, and after years of meticulous stop-motion craftsmanship, the film is finally ready to enchant audiences. It hits theaters on October 23, 2026.
The story follows Prue McKeel (voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee), a young girl who ventures into a magical forest to rescue her baby brother from a murder of crows. Along the way, she encounters a host of strange and wondrous characters. The voice cast is stacked: Jacob Tremblay, Carey Mulligan, Angela Bassett, Richard E. Grant, Charlie Day, Blythe Danner, Tom Waits, and two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali all lend their talents.
What Are Critics Saying About Wildwood?
The reviews have been nothing short of ecstatic. Collider's Aidan Kelley awarded the film a 9/10 and called it "Laika's masterpiece," writing that "Wildwood soars above them all with some of the most breathtaking sequences of the year." ScreenRant's Liz Declan gave it a perfect 10/10 and declared it "bound for the Oscars." Other critics have labeled it "remarkable" and Laika's "crowning achievement."
With such glowing praise, it's no surprise that Wildwood is already being touted as the frontrunner for Best Animated Feature at the 2027 Academy Awards. If it maintains this momentum, it could join the ranks of the best fantasy movies since 2010—and perhaps even surpass them.
Laika has a storied history of pushing the boundaries of stop-motion animation, from Coraline to ParaNorman to Missing Link. But Wildwood might just be their most ambitious project yet. The film's intricate puppets, handcrafted sets, and stunning visual effects are said to be a feast for the eyes, with some sequences being described as nothing short of breathtaking.
For fans of fantasy, Wildwood promises a rich, immersive world filled with magic, danger, and heart. It's the kind of story that reminds us why we love getting lost in other realms—whether it's a mystical forest or a binge-worthy fantasy series. And with its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score, it's already cementing its place in the pantheon of great animated films.
Of course, a 100% score with only 16 reviews is subject to change as more critics weigh in. But the early signs are overwhelmingly positive. If you're wondering whether Wildwood is worth your time, the answer seems to be a clear yes. This is one cinematic event you won't want to miss.
Wildwood opens in theaters on October 23, 2026. Stay tuned for more updates as the awards season heats up.
