Laika's upcoming film, 'Wildwood', is taking a bold step away from the usual Hollywood release playbook. This move has sparked curiosity and debate among movie enthusiasts and industry experts alike. But why?
Laika, the acclaimed animation studio behind the beloved stop-motion films Coraline, ParaNorman, Kubo and the Two Strings, and more, is no stranger to critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations. However, box office success has been elusive, with each film earning less than its predecessor. The most recent film, Missing Link, struggled to recoup its budget, despite its artistic merits.
So, Laika is trying something new for 'Wildwood'. Instead of the typical Hollywood distribution model, they've partnered with Fathom Entertainment and FilmNation Entertainment for domestic and international distribution, respectively. This strategy, according to Laika's president and CEO, Travis Knight, is tailored to the film's unique needs, allowing Laika to maintain its independence while collaborating with top-tier partners.
The new release strategy is a significant shift, and it's already generating buzz. Here's where it gets intriguing: Fathom Entertainment is owned by three of the biggest movie theater chains in the U.S. - AMC, Regal, and Cinemark. This means that Laika's decision to bypass traditional distributors doesn't necessarily harm movie theaters; it simply shifts the distribution power dynamics.
With 'Wildwood' set to hit theaters on October 23, Laika is betting on this innovative approach to reach audiences. Will this strategy pay off? Will it set a new trend in the industry? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Laika's move is a bold statement in an industry often criticized for its formulaic approach.
