Travis Knight, president and CEO of the animation studio Laika, recently discussed the production of the studio’s latest film, “Wildwood.” The movie, which is currently in theaters, is based on Colin Meloy’s 2011 fantasy novel and follows a teenage girl named Prue McKeel, voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee, as she enters a magical realm located in the forests surrounding Portland, Oregon. Knight, who directed the film, began developing the project in 2010 after reading an early manuscript of the book. He described the production as the most ambitious in the studio’s history, noting that the story’s requirements—which include large-scale battles and an extensive ensemble cast—initially exceeded the studio’s capabilities. “Wildwood” is the first film from Laika to receive a PG-13 rating. Knight explained that the rating is appropriate given the film’s complex themes, which he believes are often overlooked in modern cinema aimed at younger audiences. He emphasized that the film’s depiction of violence is intended to be tragic rather than triumphant, reflecting the reality that young people experience fear and loss. The film incorporates specific landmarks and cultural references from Portland, where Laika is based. Knight noted that the production team drew inspiration from various locations across Oregon to build the film’s setting. The movie even features a cameo by the “Unipiper,” a local Portland figure known for riding a unicycle while wearing a Darth Vader mask and playing flaming bagpipes. The performer recorded the music for the film at the Laika studio. Knight highlighted the studio’s commitment to stop-motion animation, a process he describes as “articles of faith” where every element is designed and manipulated by hand. He cited the example of the McKeel household kitchen, where even minor details—such as the use of plastic shavings to mimic pasta—were crafted to make the environment feel authentic. Addressing the rise of generative artificial intelligence in the creative arts, Knight expressed strong opposition to the technology. He characterized AI as a form of “plagiarism” and “theft,” arguing that while the technology is sophisticated, it lacks the human experience necessary for true artistry. “A machine does not know what it feels like to lose someone,” Knight said. “A machine has never fallen in love. AI has no humanity.”
Article source: San Juan Daily Star | Image credit: San Juan Daily Star