What's Happening?
Laika's live-action division has successfully acquired the rights to adapt Emily St. John Mandel's upcoming novel 'Exit Party' into a television series. The deal, reportedly in the low seven figures, marks Laika's first venture into live-action TV under
the leadership of Matt Levin, a former Netflix executive. Emma Stone and Dave McCary's production company, Fruit Tree, will serve as executive producers for the series. The novel, set to be released in September by Penguin Random House, explores themes of identity and societal roles through a narrative involving a mysterious disappearance at a Los Angeles party. Laika's decision to pursue this project was influenced by their alignment with Mandel's creative vision and their commitment to bringing her story to the screen.
Why It's Important?
This development signifies a strategic expansion for Laika, traditionally known for its stop-motion animation, into the live-action television space. By securing a high-profile project like 'Exit Party', Laika is positioning itself as a versatile player in the entertainment industry, capable of producing diverse content across different media. The involvement of Emma Stone and Dave McCary adds significant star power and credibility to the project, potentially attracting a wide audience. This move could influence other animation studios to explore live-action opportunities, thereby diversifying their portfolios and revenue streams. Additionally, the adaptation of Mandel's novel highlights the growing trend of literary works being transformed into television series, offering authors new platforms to reach audiences.
What's Next?
Laika is currently seeking a showrunner for the 'Exit Party' series, as previous candidate Jac Schaeffer is unavailable due to commitments with Amazon MGM Studios. The production is expected to proceed with Fruit Tree's Head of Television, Amy Hodge, overseeing the project. As the novel's release approaches, anticipation for the series may build, potentially impacting its reception and viewership. The success of this adaptation could lead to further collaborations between Laika and Fruit Tree, as well as additional adaptations of Mandel's works. Industry observers will be watching to see how Laika navigates this new venture and whether it will lead to more live-action projects in the future.
