Laika’s Matt Levin on Launching Live-Action and Taking the Company Into Its ‘New Chapter’ With Lord and Miller, Lulu Wang and More

Laika, the innovative stop-motion animation studio based in Portland, is celebrating its 20th anniversary by reflecting on its journey from a small boutique studio to a global storytelling powerhouse. With hits like 'ParaNorman' making a return, Laika is ramping up development on new projects, showcasing its commitment to creativity and storytelling. This evolution not only highlights Laika's impact on the animation industry but also emphasizes the growing appreciation for unique storytelling methods in cinema.

Laika is making waves with its new short film 'ParaNorman: The Thrifting,' directed by Thibault Leclercq and written by Chris Butler. This marks Laika's first venture into CG animation, and it will be showcased alongside the rerelease of their beloved 2012 film 'ParaNorman.' Set to hit theaters on October 25, this collaboration highlights Laika's innovative spirit and commitment to storytelling, making it an exciting event for animation fans.

Laika is returning to its roots with its upcoming film 'Wildwood,' based on Colin Meloy's novels and directed by Travis Knight. This project not only showcases Laika's commitment to innovative animation techniques but also highlights its connection to Portland, where both the studio and the story are based. The collaboration with Meloy, the frontman of the Decemberists, adds a unique musical element to the film, making it a significant cultural piece for the region.

A recent BBC study reveals that many viewers are skeptical about the broadcaster's independence from government influence. This perception issue is highlighted by the findings of the 'Our Future, Our BBC' survey, which involved over 872,000 participants. With only 43% expressing confidence in the BBC's autonomy, this raises significant concerns as the organization prepares to renew its Royal Charter. Understanding public sentiment is crucial for the BBC's future, as it navigates the challenges of maintaining trust and credibility.

In a significant blow to press freedom, reporters from major news outlets vacated the Pentagon after refusing to comply with new media restrictions imposed by the Trump administration. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and the press, particularly in the realm of national security reporting. The move not only affects the journalists involved but also raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government communications, which are vital for a functioning democracy.

The documentary 'The Last Class' featuring Robert Reich has become a significant success, grossing $700,000 at the box office. Reich, a well-known critic of Trump and a former Secretary of Labor, shares insights on why the film resonates with audiences. This success highlights the growing interest in political discourse and the impact of influential figures like Reich in shaping public opinion.

'South Park' has wrapped up its 27th season and is set to kick off Season 28 with a new episode on Comedy Central this Wednesday. This transition is exciting for fans as it promises fresh content and continued humor from the beloved series, keeping its legacy alive in the world of adult animation.

Celia Imrie, the beloved veteran actress, had a hilarious moment on the show 'Celebrity Traitors' when she accidentally let out a fart during a tense game. She humorously attributed the mishap to nerves, bringing a light-hearted touch to the competition. This incident not only showcased her charm but also reminded viewers that even in high-pressure situations, laughter can be the best remedy. It's moments like these that make reality TV entertaining and relatable.

Walter Salles is set to receive the prestigious Luminary Award at the Academy Museum Gala Tribute, an event that also honors notable figures like Penélope Cruz and Bruce Springsteen. Alejandro González Iñárritu, a multiple Oscar winner, has expressed his admiration for Salles, highlighting the significance of this recognition. This gala not only celebrates Salles' contributions to cinema but also reinforces the importance of artistic achievements in the film industry.