Review of Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) by Haley M — 02 Mar 2017

Hunt for the Wilderpeople: A uniquely emotional comedic relief.

A heart wrenching, gut-busting, comedy-drama film, Hunt for the Wilderpeople makes it to the top of the list when it comes to best films of 2016. This quirky, yet lovable movie is beautiful not only in the cinematography but the development of the emotions both in the characters and audience. Young Ricky Baker played by Julian Dennison is a 13-year-old foster-child wannabe gangster. He's placed in the hands of the quiet Uncle Hec (Sam Neil) and affectionate Aunt Bella (Rima Te Waita) on their small farm in the middle of New Zealand. Life takes an unexpected turn forcing Ricky and Uncle Hec to travel deep into "the Bush" on the run from child welfare officer Paula (Rachel House).

It's a completely ridiculous storyline yet somehow director, Taika Waititi pulls it all together to create another brilliant piece of art similar to his other witty-natured movies Eagle vs Shark and Boy. His prominent style throughout most of his films include the occasional prolonged scene creating that on-edge humor that can feel cringe worthy, but also makes it absolutely impossible not to laugh. The awkward but endearing moment between Ricky and Hec, sharing their haikus is the scene that makes this movie so noteworthy. These are two of the most closed off characters when it comes to expressing emotions. Within one scene, those emotional barriers break down to expose the true feelings of these rugged outlaws. Waititi masters capturing this heartwarming scene through the perfect balance of humor and affection, proving that it doesn't take tears to get an emotional point across.

With a Wes Anderson style, the whole movie is both pleasing to the eye, all while tugging at your heart strings. It's hard not to enjoy the character Ricky Baker; haikus and all. With his eye for simplicity, Waititi sets a high standard for future comedy-drama films. This artsy film is overflowing with incredibly simple, yet stunning visuals. Because it's based off of the book, Wild Pork and Watercress by Barry Crump, he brilliantly overlays the chapter headings from the book onto beautiful shots of New Zealand countryside as transitions from one part of the storyline to the next, giving it the storybook kind of feel. The whole film captures the beauty of New Zealand on a deeper level with Ricky, Uncle Hec, and their loyal dogs traveling through some of the thickest rainforests with only their keen sense of adventure to guide them.

Experiencing this film is honestly an adventure of your own. Throughout the piece it's not completely clear what you should be feeling, but that doesn't take away the fact that its charming, fun, emotional, and appealing. It will leave you with a sense of awe for the world of filmmaking and the minds that come up with these exceptional art pieces. Hunt for the Wilderpeople is ultimately an extraordinary rare masterpiece.