The first look at Laika’s long-awaited fifth feature is finally here. Missing Link explores man’s connection with myth and monsters, and we soon discover that, despite all appearances, we may not be so different from each other. Check out the trailer, below.

Although Laika features are hit and miss for me, Missing Link looks like something that will be fun to watch. The animated film uses stop-motion animation, a medium that is rarely seen due to the tedious and meticulous attention to detail that goes into the film’s movements and settings. This is why there are only five films as opposed to the numerous ones other studios like Disney, Pixar, and Illumination release.

The animation in Missing Link looks splendid. Again, it’s all in the details. From the forests, jungles, and mountain ranges, to the characters and train cars. The fur on Mr. Link and the other minor aesthetics only add to how beautiful this film looks.

Here’s the official plot synopsis:

This April, meet Mr. Link: 8 feet tall, 630 lbs, and covered in fur, but don’t let his appearance fool you”¦ he is funny, sweet, and adorably literal, making him the world’s most lovable legend at the heart of Missing Link, the globe-trotting family adventure from LAIKA. Tired of living a solitary life in the Pacific Northwest, Mr. Link recruits fearless explorer Sir Lionel Frost to guide him on a journey to find his long-lost relatives in the fabled valley of Shangri-La. Along with adventurer Adelina Fortnight, our fearless trio of explorers encounter more than their fair share of peril as they travel to the far reaches of the world to help their new friend. Through it all, the three learn that sometimes you can find a family in the places you least expect.

Directed by Chris Butler, Missing Link features the voice talents of Hugh Jackman, Zoe Saldana, Zach Galifianakis, Timothy Olyphant, David Walliams, Emma Thompson, Matt Lucas, Ching Valdes-Aran, Stephen Fry, and Amrita Acharia.

It opens in theaters on April 19, 2019.

Trailer

[Source: LAIKA Studios YT]