PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oscar-nominated film “Coraline” is known for its thrilling journey into a seemingly perfect yet sinister fantasy world. This summer, that fantasy world is coming to Portland in the form of an interactive art trail called "Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail."
LAIKA Studios, the Hillsboro-based animation company behind the film, said the trail will commemorate the film’s 15th anniversary. It will feature 30 six-feet-tall cat sculptures throughout downtown Portland starting in August.
Portland Metro Chamber CEO Andrew Hoan said the project will not only be an unforgettable experience, but it’s a chance to celebrate the creative brilliance of local artists and animators who were part of the film’s creation.
“These are internationally acclaimed movies that are being produced right here in our backyard,” Hoan said. “It is a global expression of our cultural imprint, so we should be celebrating the fact that we have a vibrant film scene here and doing whatever we can to support it.”
Visitors will be able to follow along with maps, a dedicated website and social media. The sculptures, which will be hand-painted by local artists, will eventually be auctioned off. All the proceeds will go to the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
LAIKA Studios, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, the Visit Downtown Campaign, and Wild in Art came together on Thursday for a small countdown event.
Award-winning actress Teri Hatcher, who memorably voiced Mother and Other Mother in the film, was at the event. She said the trail’s variety of elements can bring people together.
“Walking, outside, cats, art — it puts all of that together,” Hatcher said. “It’ll really be something that you can do with your family, and I just can’t wait until there’s a version of it where I live.”
Animator Brad Schiff also noted the film’s legacy and impact on young audiences, as well as generations to come.
“Coraline was the first animated film with a female protagonist that didn’t need the help of a man,” said Schiff. “Strong, curious, adventurous — I think that identifies with a lot of young girls.”