Laika's Upcoming Film, 'Wildwood,' Gets a Makeover: New Release Date and Distribution Partners!
The beloved stop-motion animation studio, Laika, is taking a bold step with its latest masterpiece, 'Wildwood.' In a surprising move, they've ditched the conventional Hollywood release strategy, leaving fans and industry experts intrigued. But why? Well, it seems the studio is ready to experiment after witnessing a decline in box office success over the years, despite their films' critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations.
A New Phase for Laika:
Laika is embracing change by partnering with Fathom Entertainment and FilmNation Entertainment for the domestic and international distribution of 'Wildwood,' respectively. This marks a significant shift from their usual distribution methods, and the studio is optimistic about the results. Laika's statement mentions that this is the beginning of a 'new phase,' which has fans buzzing with excitement and curiosity.
The studio's decision comes on the heels of successful re-releases of their previous films, particularly the 15th-anniversary re-release of 'Coraline,' which added a whopping $56 million to its global box office earnings, totaling over $185 million. But here's where it gets interesting: every Laika film since 'Coraline' has earned less at the box office than its predecessor. The most recent example is 'Missing Link' (2019), which struggled to reach $26 million worldwide against a $100 million budget.
A Customized Approach:
Laika's president and CEO, Travis Knight, who also directs 'Wildwood,' explains the studio's new strategy. He says, 'For Wildwood, we're tailoring our approach to reach audiences in a more personalized way.' By collaborating with Fathom's Denver team, they gain a national presence and operational excellence for the US release. Simultaneously, FilmNation's involvement ensures global reach and expertise in international markets.
Knight adds, 'This strategy is designed exclusively for Wildwood, allowing Laika to maintain its independence while collaborating with top-tier partners to fulfill the film's potential.'
The Release and Beyond:
Mark your calendars, as 'Wildwood' is set to hit theaters through Fathom Entertainment on October 23. Interestingly, Fathom Entertainment is owned by three of the biggest movie theater chains in the US: AMC, Regal, and Cinemark. This unique ownership structure ensures that the film's non-traditional release won't negatively affect movie theaters.
What do you think of Laika's unconventional approach? Is it a risky move or a brilliant strategy to revive their box office success? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of this innovative animation studio!
