Sebastian McKinnon’s fantasy epic ‘The Stolen Child’: A cinematic journey
McKinnon’s visionary leap into feature films
Sebastian McKinnon, renowned for his work as an artist for the trading card game Magic: The Gathering, embarks on a new journey, not just as an artist but as a director. His fantasy epic, The Stolen Child, is set to captivate audiences worldwide.
An epic quest unfolds
In this visually rich narrative, the film transports viewers to a war-torn Human Kingdom. The story centers around a daring poet who must lead three mystical heroes into the enchanting yet perilous Faerie State. Their mission is to locate a lost prince, reinstating him to the throne to restore peace.
More about ‘The Stolen Child’
The film draws inspiration from McKinnon’s acclaimed short film trilogy, Kin Fables. Fans of McKinnon have long awaited this transition into a feature film, which promises to expand on the rich lore and breathtaking visuals established in the shorts.
Currently, filming is underway in British Columbia, with further production planned in Iceland and France, culminating in a globally anticipated release in 2026. The Canadian distribution will be handled by Immina Films, ensuring that McKinnon’s vision reaches audiences at home and throughout the world.
A soundtrack to match
In addition to directing, McKinnon will also compose the film’s original soundtrack with collaborators operating under the alias Clann. This dual role highlights McKinnon’s artistic depth, promising a soundtrack that resonates as powerfully as the visuals.
Stellar cast and crew
The film boasts a cast featuring Stephen McHattie (The Fountain, Watchmen), Jason James Richter (The Little Things, The Last Rampage), and Teddy Van Ee (The Girl in the Woods, Metal Lords). The participation of these seasoned actors ensures robust performances that breathe life into the characters.
On the technical front, notable crew members include Kristof Brandl as director of photography (Falcon Lake, Dune 2) and Justin Lachance as editor (Sharp Objects, Big Little Lies). Their expertise guarantees that the film’s sight and sound will be meticulously crafted.
Insights from McKinnon
McKinnon commented on this milestone, saying, “It is an immense privilege to make this film — a journey 12 years in the making, now becoming reality thanks to the support of my fans, and my artistic and producing partners. My aim is to make a gem of a fantasy film that will resonate with a global audience, offering something beautiful, daring and unseen.”
Behind the scenes: production and support
Catherine Boily (Metafilms) and Tara Cowell-Plain (Cowpi Media) are at the helm of production. Executive producers include Sylvain Corbeil (Metafilms), Lee Broda (LB Entertainment), Francis Cucuzella (House of Youth), Carl Francesco, Stephen Robusto (House of Youth), and Joel Martinez. This powerhouse team of producers underlines the substantial investment and confidence in McKinnon’s vision.
PTI’s diverse film lineup
The involvement of Picture Tree Intl. (PTI) as the international sales agent underscores the film’s global potential. PTI’s lineup at the American Film Market (AFM) features an eclectic mix of genres, from historical dramas such as Raptures and Frieda’s Case, to the supernatural crime thriller The Osha Rule. The lineup also includes bittersweet comedies like The Mystery of Love and Butterflies, along with coming-of-age narratives such as Vena and A Quiet Resilience. Among the highlights are the fantasy blockbuster Chantal and the Magic Kingdom, and the Icelandic black comedy Divine Remedy.
Final thoughts
As The Stolen Child continues its production journey, the anticipation builds around McKinnon’s ability to translate his artistic prowess into a compelling cinematic experience. Fans and newcomers alike will eagerly await the film’s release, predicted to be a blend of innovative storytelling and immersive visuals that push the boundaries of the fantasy genre.
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