Wolfwalkers

Wolfwalkers (2020) is a critically acclaimed Irish animated fantasy film directed by Tomm Moore and Ross Stewart, produced by Cartoon Saloon and Melusine Productions. Set in 17th-century Ireland during English occupation, the story follows Robyn Goodfellowe, the daughter of an English hunter tasked with exterminating the last wolves near the walled city of Kilkenny. While exploring the forbidden forest, Robyn befriends Mebh, a wild and fiery girl who belongs to a mystical tribe known as the Wolfwalkers—beings who can transform into wolves while they sleep. As Robyn becomes entangled in the world of the Wolfwalkers, she begins to question her father’s mission and the oppressive forces of colonial rule. The film explores themes of freedom vs. control, nature vs. civilization, and the clash between myth and reason. It is deeply rooted in Irish folklore and identity, serving as both a political allegory and a tender story of female friendship and transformation. Its hand-drawn animation—rich with woodcut textures, bold color palettes, and expressive line work—is visually distinct and purposefully contrasts the harsh, gray rigidity of the English-controlled town with the vibrant, untamed beauty of the forest. Wolfwalkers had a limited theatrical release but gained widespread attention after premiering on Apple TV+ as part of Apple’s push into original film distribution. While exact box office numbers are unavailable due to the hybrid release strategy, it was a financial success for the streaming platform and became one of Apple TV+’s flagship original films. It also performed strongly at independent cinemas and animation festivals worldwide. Critically, the film received universal acclaim. It holds a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 87, with critics praising its breathtaking animation, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful emotional themes. Many considered it a high point in Cartoon Saloon’s already impressive catalog (which includes The Secret of Kells and Song of the Sea) and a serious challenger to the animation dominance of Pixar and Disney. Wolfwalkers was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 93rd Academy Awards (2021), Golden Globes, BAFTA, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Annie Awards. While it lost the Oscar to Soul, it won several other accolades, including Best Animated Feature from the Los Angeles Film Critics Association, the New York Film Critics Circle, and the Irish Film & Television Awards. It also won five Annie Awards, including Best Direction and Best Production Design. The film’s legacy is profound. It’s widely considered one of the greatest animated films of the 21st century, not only for its artistry but also for its commitment to indigenous storytelling and environmentalism. Wolfwalkers is not just a triumph of animation—it’s a defiant, lyrical celebration of resistance, friendship, and the wild spirit that survives even in the darkest times.