Finn Wolfhard opens up about wrapping up Netflix’s “Stranger Things,” likening the experience to a poignant “Toy Story 3” moment. He also discusses his latest venture, A24’s “The Legend of Ochi,” and the joys of working with practical effects.
Bidding Farewell to ‘Stranger Things’: A Decade of Memories
Finn Wolfhard has officially closed the chapter on Stranger Things, the show that skyrocketed him to fame. Reflecting on his last day on set, Wolfhard shared that the moment was both emotional and monumental.
“It’s the last 10 years of my life,” he revealed at Sundance, where he was promoting his new film, The Legend of Ochi. “It was incredibly emotional… My whole childhood was there.” For Wolfhard and the Duffer Brothers, who created the series, the journey was transformative. The brothers were in their 30s when the show began; now they’re in their 40s, with a legacy of groundbreaking storytelling under their belts.
Wolfhard compared the end of the show to the heart-wrenching finale of Toy Story 3. “It’s that moment of leaving your toys behind,” he said. The final year of filming was intense, spanning a full year in a “Lord of the Rings” style shoot. Despite the challenges, Wolfhard felt the series wrapped up in the best possible way, leaving him ready for new adventures.
Diving Into a New Fantasy World with A24’s ‘The Legend of Ochi’
Transitioning from Hawkins, Indiana, to the mystical island of Carpathia, Wolfhard stars in The Legend of Ochi, a tale brimming with magic, puppetry, and adventure. Directed by Isaiah Saxon, the film follows Yuri, a farm girl who befriends a baby ochi and embarks on a journey to reunite him with his species.
For Wolfhard, the use of puppetry and animatronics was a standout aspect of the production. “It makes our jobs easier,” he explained, appreciating the chance to interact with real-life creatures on set. “There’s something to be said about amazing craftsmanship and being able to feel that in a scene.”
The film’s creative approach to practical effects brought a tactile realism to the fantastical story. “Even with great visual effects, interacting with a tennis ball doesn’t compare to working with something tangible,” Wolfhard said. The unique techniques employed in The Legend of Ochi added depth to the performances and enriched the movie’s magical world.
A Challenging Journey to Release Day
The Legend of Ochi faced its own share of challenges. Initially slated for release in February, the film’s debut was postponed to April 25 after director Isaiah Saxon lost his home in the Los Angeles wildfires. Wolfhard expressed deep admiration for Saxon’s resilience and dedication to completing the film despite personal setbacks.
“It’s a testament to the strength of the creative team,” Wolfhard noted. The delay hasn’t dampened the excitement surrounding the film, which promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. With a stellar cast including Willem Dafoe, Helena Zengel, and Emily Watson, the project has already garnered significant buzz.
For Wolfhard, the film marks a significant moment in his career, representing both a departure from his Stranger Things roots and an embrace of new storytelling horizons. As he embarks on this next phase, fans can expect to see more of his talent shine in unique and unexpected roles.
Finn Wolfhard’s journey from the supernatural world of Stranger Things to the fantastical landscapes of The Legend of Ochi reflects his evolution as an actor. Whether bidding farewell to Hawkins or stepping into a new fantasy realm, Wolfhard continues to captivate audiences with his heartfelt performances and passion for storytelling. Fans can catch The Legend of Ochi in theaters on April 25.
