93 minutes, Comedy, PG

Ricky Baker – the central character of the new Kiwi comedy HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE and one you’ll remember for a long time to come. Ricky (PAPER PLANES actor, Julian Dennison) has had a rough, tough time in his first 13 (or so) years. This ‘real bad egg’ finally has a chance to crack some good into his life, staying in the home of Hector & Bella Faulkner (Sam Neill and Rima Te Wiata). When Ricky and Hector find themselves lost in the bush, a national manhunt ensues, which includes child protection officer Paula Hall (Rachel House), who’ll stop at nothing to find them!

A raging success in its hometown, where it has broken the NZ box office record to become the first local feature to gross more than $1 million in its opening weekend, you can add HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE to your watch list. This little Kiwi gem with a big heart is first and foremost, a comedy. And a laugh out loud one at that. Yet what elevates this excellent film above others of the same ilk is what it has going on in the background. As a buoyantly creative screenplay excitingly leads us along unpredictable terrain, HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE uses sound by way of a unique and eclectic soundtrack and briefly brings to the fore undertones closer to the heart. This is a clever, heartwarming and triumphant cinematic experience. There is no disputing the superb work that has been completed by director Taika Waititi (WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS, BOY, EAGLE VS SHARK), yet it cannot be denied that the shining light of HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE is cast upon Julian Dennison as Ricky. In what has got to be a breakthrough performance, Julian has a natural style to his comedic acting that is only outdone by his outstanding timing and execution. A majestical film! Highly recommended.

4 out of 5

HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE – Official Film Trailer

Footnote to Parents 
Classified PG and contains thematic elements which include violent content and a suggestive act, and coarse language. My suggestion, ages from approximately 10 and up with parental guidance should be suitable viewing. 

Moviedoc wishes to thank Madman and Cinema NOVA for the invitation to the Media Screening of HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE.

Review by Moviedoc
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