The highly anticipated "The Forest is Calling Portal Experience," an immersive, in-person exhibition celebrating the fantastical world of LAIKA’s upcoming film Wildwood, has officially opened its gates at San Diego Comic-Con. Located strategically outside the Hard Rock Hotel, this groundbreaking event marks the first time fans can physically step into the richly imagined universe of Wildwood. The exhibition, which commenced its run on July 23rd and will continue through July 26th, is poised to embark on an extensive North American tour, building significant anticipation for the film’s official theatrical release on October 23rd. This initiative represents a significant effort by LAIKA to engage audiences directly with its storytelling and unique artistic vision, extending the magic of cinema beyond the silver screen and into tangible, interactive experiences.
A Deep Dive into the Enchanted Wilderness of Wildwood
Inspired by the beloved novel of the same name penned by Colin Meloy, lead singer of The Decemberists, and brought to life through LAIKA’s signature handcrafted artistry, "The Forest is Calling Portal Experience" offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the film’s intricate mythology and captivating atmosphere. The experience is meticulously designed to evoke the enigmatic and awe-inspiring Impassable Wilderness that serves as the backdrop for the Wildwood narrative. Upon entering, attendees are not merely observers but active participants, invited to discover their potential place within the film’s diverse factions of denizens, fostering a sense of personal connection to the unfolding story.
The exhibition is a carefully curated collection of elements that form the visual and thematic core of Wildwood. Central to the experience is the "Wildwood Sigil," a mystical symbol that acts as the literal and metaphorical gateway into this enchanted realm. Further enhancing the sense of narrative immersion are iconic props that hint at the film’s inciting incidents: Prue McKeel’s bicycle, depicted as abandoned at the forest’s edge, and Baby Mac’s wagon, a poignant reminder of the abduction that sets the entire adventure in motion. These artifacts, alongside a multitude of hidden elements, symbols, and Easter eggs drawn directly from the film’s lore, invite keen-eyed visitors to uncover deeper layers of the story. The environment itself is a sensory marvel, meticulously constructed with lush evergreens, cascading ivy, and vibrant flora, all underscored by an ambient soundscape designed to transport attendees directly into the heart of the Impassable Wilderness. The interactive nature of the journey ensures a personalized experience, culminating in a digital photo opportunity and a collectible keepsake, offering tangible mementos of their foray into Wildwood.
The Art of Immersive Storytelling: LAIKA’s Handcrafted Philosophy
The realization of "The Forest is Calling Portal Experience" is a testament to LAIKA’s unwavering commitment to practical fabrication and extensive hand craftsmanship. Every scenic element has been individually textured, finished, and meticulously painted to achieve a lifelike, human-scale representation of the Wildwood world. This dedication to tactile artistry is a hallmark of LAIKA’s filmmaking process and is seamlessly translated into this exhibition. The experience was co-designed by Matt Maldonado, the Art Director for Wildwood, in collaboration with the Portland-based agency KAMP Grizzly. Their joint vision has successfully extended LAIKA’s distinctive handcrafted filmmaking philosophy beyond the confines of the screen, allowing audiences to engage with the studio’s artistry in a physical and interactive manner.
David Burke, LAIKA’s Chief Marketing & Operations Officer, articulated the studio’s strategic intent behind this immersive initiative: "Before audiences discover Wildwood in theatres, we wanted them to discover its world. ‘The Forest Is Calling’ is the first invitation to step inside." This statement underscores the exhibition’s role as a crucial touchpoint for audience engagement, aiming to build a deep emotional connection with the film’s universe long before its theatrical debut. By offering a tangible experience, LAIKA aims to foster a devoted fanbase eager to witness the full narrative unfold on the big screen.
A North American Journey and Ticketing Information
Following its debut at San Diego Comic-Con, "The Forest is Calling Portal Experience" is scheduled to embark on a multi-city tour across North America. This extensive roadshow is designed to maximize reach and engagement, allowing fans in various regions to experience the magic of Wildwood firsthand. While specific dates and locations for the subsequent tour stops are yet to be fully detailed, the commitment to a widespread rollout signals LAIKA’s significant investment in the Wildwood franchise and its desire to cultivate a broad audience.
For audiences in the United States eager to secure their cinematic journey into Wildwood, tickets will become available later this summer through Fathom Entertainment and at participating theater box offices. It is important to note that theater locations are subject to change, and fans are encouraged to sign up for notifications to be among the first to know when ticket sales commence. This staggered release of information and ticketing availability is a common strategy to maintain sustained public interest and build momentum leading up to the film’s premiere.
LAIKA’s Legacy of Animated Excellence
Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Oregon, just outside Portland, LAIKA has carved out a distinctive niche in the animation industry. The studio is renowned for its unparalleled artistry, groundbreaking filmmaking techniques, and innovative use of technology. Its impressive filmography includes critically acclaimed features such as Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Missing Link. A remarkable testament to the studio’s quality and impact, all five of these films have received Academy Award nominations for Best Animated Feature.
Beyond Oscar recognition, LAIKA’s films have garnered significant accolades. Kubo and the Two Strings triumphed at the BAFTA Awards, securing the Best Animated Film award, and also earned an additional Academy Award nomination for its exceptional Visual Effects. More recently, Missing Link was honored with the Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Film. In recognition of its pioneering advancements, LAIKA received a prestigious Scientific and Technical Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2016 for its innovative contributions to 3D printing technology in filmmaking. This consistent recognition from major industry bodies highlights LAIKA’s position as a leader in the art and craft of animated storytelling.
Expanding Horizons: LAIKA’s Live-Action Ventures
In addition to its celebrated animation studio, LAIKA has established a live-action subsidiary that is actively developing a diverse slate of film and television projects. This expansion into live-action storytelling demonstrates LAIKA’s ambition to explore new creative avenues and diversify its storytelling portfolio. The subsidiary is currently engaged in adaptations of works by notable authors, including John Brownlow, Taylor Jenkins Reid, Katie Kitamura, and Emily St. John Mandel. Furthermore, LAIKA is fostering collaborations with a distinguished roster of filmmakers, such as Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, Lulu Wang, Brian Duffield, and Jon Spaihts. These partnerships, alongside collaborations with production entities like Higher Ground and Fruit Tree, signal a strategic push to broaden LAIKA’s creative reach and impact across different mediums within the entertainment landscape. This dual focus on groundbreaking animation and ambitious live-action projects positions LAIKA as a dynamic and forward-thinking force in the global media industry.
