Did you like Caroline or ParaNorman? Are you excited for The Boxtrolls? If you answered yes to any one of these questions, then you're familiar with LAIKA's work and you'll be happy to know that they're spinning off their ad division to work on more feature films. Being a fan of LAIKA's stylistic work, I'm all for this. Read the press release below.
(Portland, OR; May 20, 2014) -- LAIKA, the animation studio based just outside Portland, Oregon, is spinning off its advertising/commercial division LAIKA/house to concentrate exclusively on the feature film arena. Next up for LAIKA is The Boxtrolls, its third feature film, releasing domestically on September 26, 2014.
LAIKA/house President Lourri Hammack, Creative Director Kirk Kelley and Managing Director of Strategic Operations Al Cubillas will lead a new studio specializing in short to mid-form animated content for advertising and broadcast markets. LAIKA plans to continue operations under the LAIKA/house banner as it transitions work to the new studio over the summer months.
“We’re very proud of the entire LAIKA/house team and its heritage of beautiful, industry-leading work,” says Travis Knight, LAIKA President & CEO. “But as LAIKA finishes our third film and is in the process of actively developing an ambitious range of future projects, it’s become clear that we need to devote all of our artistry, innovation, and resources towards our feature films in order to craft the distinctive and evocative stories for which LAIKA has become known.”
“With Coraline and ParaNorman we set a high standard for ourselves and the entire animation industry,” Knight continues. “The Boxtrolls and our slate of upcoming films aspire to push the bar even higher. Our commitment to creating superlative works of art has been the force driving both of LAIKA’s divisions since our inception. We wish Lourri, Kirk and Al tremendous success as they carry on that tradition of excellence in their new venture.”
“Animation isn’t just a storytelling medium – it’s our life force and our passion,” says Hammack. “In just a few short years, LAIKA has created groundbreaking works of feature-length animated art that continue to inspire and amaze. We are honored to be entrusted with LAIKA/house’s rich legacy as we build the next chapter of our longstanding advertising and commercial division.”
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