Laika Studios has finally ended the long wait for its most ambitious project yet: Wildwood. Directed by Travis Knight and written by Chris Butler, the upcoming animated film is based on Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis’s 2011 novel of the same name.
The film follows a girl, Prue McKeel, who is on a desperate quest to save her baby brother. The journey involves epic battles, high-stakes chases, a deadly forbidden forest, enchanted creatures, an entire hidden realm, and more.
Wildwood is officially set to be a cinematic event rather than a direct-to-streaming release. If you are wondering when you can travel to the impassable wilderness from the comfort of your couch, here is the breakdown of the theatrical and streaming release for the film!
When Will Wildwood Release on Streaming?
Wildwood | Credits: Laika
Before Wildwood hits your TV, it is headed for a massive theatrical run. In January 2026, it was confirmed by Laika that the film will be released in the United States on October 23, with Fathom Entertainment handling the domestic release (via Variety).
While an international release date has not been announced, Filmnation Entertainment will be handling international sales.
Given the theatrical release, according to industry estimates, Wildwood is expected to have its digital release (VOD) around late December 2026 or January 2027. As for its preceding streaming release, we can have the film released by Spring 2027.
Laika typically follows a traditional 45-to-90-day theatrical window. Given that Wildwood is being positioned as a “landmark achievement” with high production costs, the studio will likely prioritize ticket sales and premium video-on-demand (PVOD) purchases before moving it to a subscription streaming service.
Where to Stream Wildwood?
Credits: Laika
Credits: Laika
Credits: Laika
While many fans are asking if Wildwood will come to Netflix, the answer is currently a likely maybe.
There is a possibility that Laika might follow the path of Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio and move to Netflix. However, Laika’s recent deal with Fathom for a full theatrical release suggests they are maintaining their independence.
However, most of Laika’s features are spread across different streaming platforms like Tubi, Prime Video, Apple TV, and more, in different regions.
In the US, there is a possibility that the film might even land on HBO Max or Hulu, as these platforms often secure the Pay–1 window for independent theatrical features. With FilmNation Entertainment handling international sales, the streaming home for the film outside the US will vary by country.
This film is reportedly the “hardest” Laika has ever made, featuring a massive battle sequence that required years of hand-crafted choreography (via Empire Online). If there was ever a movie to see on the biggest screen possible before it hits streaming, this is the one.
AspectDetailsNameWildwoodGenreStop-motion animated dark fantasy filmDirectorTravis KnightWriterChris ButlerBased OnColin Meloy and Carson Ellis’s 2011 novelCastPeyton Elizabeth Lee, Jacob Tremblay, Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Awkwafina, Angela Bassett, Jake Johnson, Charlie Day, Amandla Stenberg, Jemaine Clement, Maya Erskine, Tantoo Cardinal, Tom Waits, and Richard E. Grant.Production CompanyLaikaDistributed ByFathom Entertainment (United States)Filmanation Entertainment (Internationally)Release DateOctober 23, 2026LanguageEnglish
What do you think? Will you be watching it in theaters, wait for its streaming release, or both? Let us know in the comments below.
Wildwood will release in theaters on October 23, 2026, in the United States.
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