Wildwood, the latest Oscar-contending stop-motion epic from Laika Studios, has set its world premiere for AFI Fest. On Wednesday, the organization revealed the Best Animated Feature hopeful will open the 40th edition of the Los Angeles-based festival, running Oct. 21-25 at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
While we wait for the full lineup to be unveiled on Sept. 29, here’s everything we know about this year’s edition.
THE LINEUP
So far, Wildwood is the first official selection announced for the festival. Directed and produced by Oscar nominee Travis Knight from a screenplay by Oscar nominee Chris Butler, the stop-motion fantasy is based on the novel by Colin Meloy and features cinematography by Oscar nominee Caleb Deschanel (AFI Class of 1969).
Its star-studded voice cast is led by Peyton Elizabeth Lee and Jacob Tremblay, alongside Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Angela Bassett, Awkwafina, Jake Johnson, Charlie Day, Amandla Stenberg, Jemaine Clement, Maya Erskine, Tantoo Cardinal, Tom Waits, and Richard E. Grant.
“At a time when the world needs artistic inspiration more than ever, Wildwood comes to the rescue by inviting audiences to a hand-crafted, endlessly imaginative world that both dazzles and delights,” said Bob Gazzale, AFI President & CEO.
A-LIST ATTENDEES
Set in the heart of Hollywood, the weeklong event always attracts top-tier talent. Last year featured high-profile premieres and appearances from stars including George Clooney, Adam Sandler, Sydney Sweeney, Jeremy Allen White, Gus Van Sant, Russell Crowe, Rami Malek, Hugh Jackman, and Kate Hudson.
WHEN AND WHERE
Opening night is set for Oct. 21. The 40th edition of the American Film Institute’s annual festival will run Oct. 21–25 at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.
