Hunt for the Wilderpeople 2016

In the enchanting landscapes of rural New Zealand, a child services officer named Paula and a police officer, Andy, arrive at a farm accompanied by 13-year-old Ricky, a Maori orphan. Excitement fills the air as Bella, Ricky’s new foster mother, joyfully anticipates his arrival. Although Paula shares snippets of Ricky’s troubled past through brief flashbacks, Bella remains optimistic, exclaiming herself as Ricky’s aunt. Initially resistant, Ricky even attempts to return to the police car, but Bella invites him into a comfortable room filled with books, catering to his love for reading, movies, and music.

Meanwhile, Hec, a rugged 65-year-old who bears a striking resemblance to Sean Connery, returns home from a hunting trip with his dog, Zag, carrying a large pig. Unlike Bella, Hec is less thrilled about welcoming Ricky into their family. As Hec begrudgingly embraces his new role as “Uncle,” he struggles to connect with the boy.

One night, driven by curiosity, Ricky wanders off, only to be discovered sleeping a mere 200 yards from home by Bella, who cheerfully informs him that breakfast awaits. Ricky is soon tasked with chores and learns about various customs from Bella, who shares her contemplations about life and what she believes happens after death. When Hec takes Ricky hunting, Ricky’s poetic inclinations clash with his squeamish nature, revealing that he struggles with the reality of killing animals despite his fascination with morbid topics.

Ricky experiences something new during his birthday celebration, complete with a cake and a dog he names Tupac, inspired by the famous rapper. However, after a particularly poignant moment where Ricky witnesses Hec’s vulnerability, he feels abandoned when Child Services sends a notice regarding a forthcoming evaluation of his situation. In a moment of despair, Ricky pens a suicide note, ignites a barn fire, and flees into the wilderness, determined to survive on his own.

Despite Hec’s earlier comments about Ricky’s inability to thrive in the bush, he is soon drawn into Ricky’s world as he actively searches for him. As their journey unfolds, they find themselves confronting the harsh realities of wilderness survival, particularly after Hec injures his leg.

As the search intensifies, Paula tirelessly seeks after Ricky, convinced that Hec might be in a desperate situation. During their time in the wild, the duo inadvertently becomes famous after their story makes headlines. However, misunderstandings arise when their relationship is misrepresented, complicating their situation even further.

In a twist of fate, Ricky and Hec encounter an eccentric conspiracy theorist named Sam, who offers temporary refuge. But as hilariously chaotic events lead to a madcap truck chase involving the army, the story takes a drastic turn.

Eventually, Ricky and Hec find themselves in a courtroom, facing significant decisions about their futures. After Hec serves his time, he is shown in a halfway house where he struggles to learn to read. Fortunately, a visit from Ricky, accompanied by Kahu and her father, rekindles hope as Hec agrees to live with Kahu’s family, leaving an open door for adventurous pursuits within the bush once again. This tale beautifully illustrates themes of survival, belonging, and unlikely friendships against a backdrop of breathtaking New Zealand vistas.