First reviews are saying that the movie is “destined to become an instant classic”.
Animation studio Cartoon Saloon have released three feature films to date, and each one of them has been nominated for the Best Animated Feature Oscar. The Secret Of Kells in 2009, Song Of The Sea in 2014, and The Breadwinner in 2017 were all shortlisted to take home the trophy, but were all defeated at the final hurdle by Disney and Pixar (in order: Up, Big Hero 6, and Coco).
For the 2021 Oscars, it once again looks like it may come down to the Irish company versus the American giant, as Cartoon Saloon’s newest feature Wolfwalkers will be going up against Disney/Pixar’s upcoming Soul.
However, it does look like Cartoon Saloon may be on to a winner, as the movie has premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and the early word is nothing short of staggering:
“A visually dazzling, richly imaginative, emotionally resonant production that taps into contemporary concerns while being true to its distant origins” – Hollywood Reporter
“Rattles along with the force of an epic tale told compellingly round an ancient campfire” – The Irish Times
“Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart have an enviable reputation as purveyors of world class animated features. Wolfwalkers will only enhance that status” – Screen International
“Kids need movies like this that respect their intelligence, center strong female characters and question policies of blind obedience, while making an effort to integrate the rich cultural influences of a past that’s rapidly being bulldozed out of memory” – Variety
The film tells the story of Robyn Goodfellowe, a young apprentice hunter who journeys to Ireland with her father in a time of superstition and magic, and they have come to wipe out the last wolf pack in the country. While exploring the forbidden lands outside the city walls, Robyn befriends a free-spirited girl, Mebh, a member of a mysterious tribe rumored to have the ability to transform into wolves by night.
As they search for Mebh’s missing mother, Robyn uncovers a secret that draws her further into the enchanted world of the Wolfwalkers and risks turning into the very thing her father is tasked to destroy.
Wolfwalkers will arrive in Irish cinemas on Friday 30 October, with some previews running nationwide on Monday 26 October. You can check out the trailer for the movie right here:
