Hunt for the Wilderpeople

Story

Ricky Baker is a troubled young boy who has spent his life in and out of care. When he is fostered by the kindly, quirky Aunt Bella and the grumpy Uncle Hector, Ricky finally begins to come out of his shell. However, tragedy strikes, and Ricky and Hector are forced to flee into the wilderness with half of New Zealand on their tails.

Why we chose it

Its origins in the tiny nation of New Zealand and themes of Maori identity make this tale of survival against-the-odds the perfect underdog story.

Where it came from

Although adapted from the novel Wild Pork and Watercress by beloved New Zealand author Barry Crump, Hunt for the Wilderpeople only uses the main characters and loose plot of the novel, instead opting to make the story into an adventure-comedy like the classic NZ films that director Taika Waititi grew up with.

Where it went next

Hunt for the Wilderpeople has become the highest grossing New Zealand film, both domestically and around the world. In spite of a modest international release, the film was able to secure many awards nominations, and both director Taika Waititi and breakout star Julian Dennison have gone on to Hollywood success.

Associated stories

The film and the book from which it is adapted share many similar themes and plot points to other books by author Barry Crump, who is one of New Zealand’s best-selling authors, although he is relatively unheard of overseas. Director Taika Waititi has made several other successful films, with 2010’s Boy sharing the most common ground with Hunt. Some of the classic NZ adventure films listed by Waititi as inspirations include Goodbye Pork Pie, Came a Hot Friday, and Shaker Run.