Join us for an exciting discussion with Nick Park, the visionary creator behind Wallace & Gromit, and co-director Merlin Crossingham, as they delve into the latest adventure, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. This engaging conversation reveals insights into the creative process and the evolution of these beloved characters.

After two decades, the iconic animated duo, Wallace and Gromit, are back to captivate audiences in their first full-length feature since their last escapade in Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. In their latest film, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, they confront a familiar adversary and a horde of mischievous garden gnomes. As anticipation builds for the film’s debut on Netflix on January 3, we had the chance to talk with the legendary Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham, exploring the intricacies of this grand cinematic adventure that promises to thrill fans old and new.

In our insightful conversation, Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham shared their thoughts on the timeless charm of Wallace and Gromit and the potential challenges of keeping the characters relevant for modern audiences. They also discussed the transition from creating Wallace and Gromit short films to directing a substantial feature film, highlighting the unique challenges and creative opportunities that come with larger productions. Additionally, we delved into the design of Norbot, the garden gnome, examining how to achieve a perfect balance between adorable and unsettling in his character design.

Here’s the official synopsis for the highly anticipated Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl:

Aardman’s acclaimed director, Nick Park, who has won four Academy Awards, along with Emmy Award-nominated Merlin Crossingham, are back with a brand-new epic adventure, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. In this exciting new chapter, Gromit becomes increasingly worried about Wallace’s growing reliance on his inventions, a concern that proves well-founded when Wallace creates a “smart” gnome with a mind of its own. As sinister events unfold, it’s up to Gromit to confront dark forces from the past and save his master from a fate where Wallace may never invent again!

On a personal note, interviewing Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham was a dream come true. Having grown up watching Wallace & Gromit since I was just seven, these characters have profoundly influenced my love for animation, particularly the artistry of stop-motion. It was a surreal experience to engage with the creative minds behind the magic of these beloved characters, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to discuss their legacy.

Meet the Passionate Writer Behind This Article

Steve Seigh, originally from New York and now residing in Canada, has been a dedicated editor, columnist, and critic for JoBlo.com since 2012. He began his journey with the column Ink & Pixel, celebrating the enchanting world and development of animation, which later inspired the companion YouTube series Animation Movies Revisited. Additionally, Steve is the voice behind the Talking Comics Podcast, an engaging audio show that dives into comic books, film, music, and much more. Known for his love of music and culinary delights, you’ll often find him sporting headphones and the delightful aroma of pancakes.