Wilderpeople

Summer has officially started here in the Northern Hemisphere, and what better way than to kick back with an icy freezer treat and a film adventuring through the wild bush of New Zealand? The 2016 film Hunt for the Wilderpeople, written and directed by Taika Waititi (director of Boy, 2010) depicts the story of Ricky Baker, a misfit kid always finding himself in some kind of trouble. One sticky situation places Ricky in the hands of a couple in the country just trying to enjoy their quiet lives away from the city.

Hec and Bella become Ricky’s foster parents, which is an adjustment for everyone involved. When things seem to be looking up from all the change, an unexpected event puts Hec in the position to be the only guardian of Ricky. Though not meshing well with Hec, Ricky knows he definitely doesn’t want to go back to the foster home in the city, so he runs away. Hec, stuck in the middle of a mess he didn’t ask for, goes after Ricky himself. They both go missing in the bush which leads to a national manhunt. While Ricky and Hec are being searched for, the two trail their way through the bush surviving, bonding over game they hunted for, and meeting some interesting characters along the way.

Ricky and Hec encounter two wild boars. Growing up in the 90s and 2000s with a wilderness dad, this scene brought me back to every wilderness survival lesson (and unexpected experience) he guided me through. It’s always surprising to me how many people don’t know we have wild boars here in the states and how dangerous they are. Nonetheless, it’s a sentimental moment showing how much some quality time with a friend in the wild can do you some good. As a matter of fact, let me pack up my own camping gear. I love a proper fire roasted sausage and campfire tea on a clear starry night.

With an incredibly diverse cast, this New Zealand film showcases Māori and Pacific Islander talents from start to finish. Waititi, Māori himself, has not only grown as a director, but as a story teller. Based on the book Wild Pork and Watercress by Barry Crump, Waititi comes through with this film. Action, adventure, belly aching laughs, suspense, and endearing moments, Hunt for the Wilderpeople is such a fun family friendly pick. If you’ve been itching for a sign to finally go on that unforgettable summer camping trip, this is it. Grab your best mates, your favorite campfire foods, and pop on this film before you embark on your very own summer adventure of a lifetime.