Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a movie based on the novel Wild Pork and Watercress by the New Zealand author Barry Crump.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the book and film, delving into the cast and characters, plot summaries, and other interesting aspects of this unique adaptation.
Book Summary: Wild Pork and Watercress
Wild Pork and Watercress is a novel by Barry Crump that was first published in 1986.
The book tells the story of Ricky Baker, a young boy who has been in and out of foster care for most of his life.
After his latest placement with a loving family in the New Zealand countryside, Ricky finds himself on the run with his foster uncle, Hector Faulkner, after a series of unfortunate events.
Throughout their journey, Ricky and Hector, an experienced bushman, navigate the rugged New Zealand wilderness, evading the authorities and bonding over their shared love of adventure.
The book explores themes of family, self-discovery, and the transformative power of nature.
Film Summary: Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a 2016 film directed by Taika Waititi and adapted from Barry Crump’s novel Wild Pork and Watercress.
The film maintains the core elements of the book, with Ricky Baker, played by Julian Dennison, and his foster uncle Hector, played by Sam Neill, embarking on a journey through the New Zealand wilderness.
As they traverse the bush, the duo encounters a variety of eccentric characters and situations, all while evading a determined child welfare officer, Paula Hall, played by Rachel House.
The film has received widespread critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, unique sense of humor, and stunning cinematography.
Waititi’s adaptation of Crump’s novel has become a beloved addition to the New Zealand film canon, capturing the essence of the country’s landscape and culture.
Cast and Characters: Who’s Who in the Film
Hunt for the Wilderpeople boasts an impressive cast of talented actors who bring the story’s colorful characters to life.
Some of the key players include:
- Ricky Baker (Julian Dennison): The film’s protagonist, Ricky is a young boy with a troubled past who finds solace and adventure in the New Zealand wilderness with his foster uncle Hector.
- Hector Faulkner (Sam Neill): Ricky’s gruff and initially reluctant foster uncle, Hector becomes a father figure and mentor to Ricky as they journey through the bush.
- Bella Faulkner (Rima Te Wiata): Hector’s kind-hearted wife, Bella quickly forms a strong bond with Ricky, providing him with the love and stability he has been searching for.
- Paula Hall (Rachel House): A determined child welfare officer, Paula is relentless in her pursuit of Ricky, believing she is acting in his best interest.
Parent Guide: Is It Suitable for All Ages?
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a film that, while containing some mature themes and occasional coarse language, can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages.
The movie is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, including some violence, and coarse language.
However, the film’s overall tone is light-hearted and humorous, making it suitable for family viewing with older children.
Parents should be aware that the film contains some intense moments, such as a wild boar hunt and a standoff with armed authorities.
However, these scenes are balanced with moments of warmth and humor, making Hunt for the Wilderpeople a film that many families can enjoy together.
When and Where does the story take place?
The story of Hunt for the Wilderpeople takes place in the beautiful and rugged countryside of New Zealand.
The setting is as much a character in the story as the human characters themselves, with the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty of the country playing a significant role in the film’s visual appeal.
The film is set in present-day New Zealand, allowing viewers to experience the unique culture and stunning scenery of the country in a contemporary context.
The journey of Ricky and Hector takes them through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests and rolling hills to breathtaking mountain vistas.
Exploring the Film Locations
Hunt for the Wilderpeople was filmed on location in various parts of New Zealand, showcasing the country’s diverse and spectacular landscapes.
Some of the key filming locations include:
- Kaitoke Regional Park: Located just north of Wellington, this park provided the dense bush and forest settings for many of the film’s wilderness scenes.
- Horopito: A small town in the North Island, Horopito served as the backdrop for several scenes, including the exterior of Hector and Bella’s home.
- Ruapehu District: Located in the central North Island, this area is home to the stunning Tongariro National Park, which provided a breathtaking backdrop for many of the film’s mountain scenes.
Memorable Quotes from the Film
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is filled with memorable quotes and moments of humor that have endeared the film to audiences worldwide.
Some of the most notable quotes include:
- “I didn’t choose the skuxx life; the skuxx life chose me.” – Ricky Baker
- “We didn’t get lost; we found our own way.” – Hector Faulkner
- “Shit just got real! Back up, homies, and let go of my uncle!” – Ricky Baker
- “You’re more like Sarah Connor, and in the first movie too, before she could do chin-ups.” – Ricky Baker to Paula Hall
The Soundtrack: A Look at Lukasz Buda, Samuel Scott, and Conrad Wedde’s Contribution
The soundtrack for Hunt for the Wilderpeople is an integral part of the film’s unique charm and atmosphere.
Composed by Lukasz Buda, Samuel Scott, and Conrad Wedde, the music perfectly complements the film’s blend of humor, heart, and adventure.
The soundtrack features a mix of instrumental tracks and songs with lyrics, including several tracks by New Zealand musicians.
One of the standout tracks is “Trifecta,” a hauntingly beautiful piece that plays during a pivotal scene in the film.
The soundtrack as a whole contributes to the film’s overall tone and helps to immerse viewers in the story’s emotional journey.
‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’ screenplay by Taika Waititi, analysis, and where to download it
Taika Waititi wrote the screenplay for Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople, and he does an excellent job of bringing the story to life on the big screen.
While there were some changes made to accommodate the format of a movie, the screenplay does a good job of capturing the essence of the story.
The screenplay is available for download online, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting or movie-making.
The screenplay provides insight into Taika Waititi’s creative process and his approach to storytelling.
Curiosities and Trivia about the Adaptation
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a film that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, and there are many interesting facts and trivia surrounding its production and release. Some of these curiosities include:
- The film is director Taika Waititi’s highest-grossing New Zealand film, breaking box office records in the country.
- Sam Neill, who plays Hector, has stated that the film is his favorite of all the projects he has worked on in his career.
- The film’s production was completed in just five weeks, a testament to the efficiency and dedication of the cast and crew.
Tips for Cosplay: Dressing like Hector Faulkner, Ricky Baker, Bella Faulkner, and Paula Hall
If you’re a fan of Hunt for the Wilderpeople and want to show your love for the film through cosplay, there are several iconic outfits worn by the main characters that you can recreate. Here are some tips for dressinglike Hector Faulkner, Ricky Baker, Bella Faulkner, and Paula Hall:
- Hector Faulkner: To dress like Hector, you’ll need a rugged and practical outfit suitable for traversing the New Zealand wilderness. A plaid shirt, cargo pants, and hiking boots are a good place to start. Don’t forget to add a backpack and a hunting rifle for an authentic touch.
- Ricky Baker: Ricky’s unique sense of style and humor is reflected in his wardrobe. To dress like Ricky, you’ll need a bright red hoodie, a pair of cargo shorts, and some colorful high-top sneakers. Add a backpack and a baseball cap to complete the look.
- Bella Faulkner: Bella’s cheerful and nurturing personality is reflected in her clothing choices. To dress like Bella, you’ll need a flowy and colorful dress, a pair of sandals, and a sun hat. Don’t forget to add some floral accessories, such as a necklace or scarf.
- Paula Hall: Paula’s no-nonsense attitude is reflected in her wardrobe, which is functional and utilitarian. To dress like Paula, you’ll need a pair of cargo pants, a button-up shirt, and a sturdy pair of boots. Add a utility belt and a walkie-talkie to complete the look.
Where to watch ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’ – streaming, download and DVD options
‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’ is currently available to stream on various online platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Netflix. The movie is also available on DVD and Blu-ray; nice idea for a gift to a ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’s fan.
Gadgets and collectibles related to ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’
If you’re a fan of ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople’, there are several gadgets and collectibles that you may be interested in, such as action figures, posters, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.
These items make great gifts for fans of the book or movie.
Video Games Inspired by Hunt for the Wilderpeople
In addition to the film adaptation, Hunt for the Wilderpeople has also inspired several video games.
One such game is Hunt for the Wilderpeople: Virtual Reality, which allows players to experience the New Zealand wilderness and interact with the film’s characters in a 360-degree environment.
Another game is The Hunt for the Wilderpeople Game, which is a mobile game that challenges players to help Ricky and Hector navigate the wilderness while avoiding obstacles and collecting supplies.
Barry Crump: A Brief Biography and His Other Books
Barry Crump, the author of Wild Pork and Watercress, was a New Zealand writer and television personality.
Born in 1935, Crump grew up in the New Zealand countryside, developing a love for hunting and outdoor adventure that would inform much of his writing.
Crump’s other notable works include A Good Keen Man, Hang On a Minute Mate, and Bastards I Have Met.
Crump’s writing style was characterized by his humor, wit, and love of the New Zealand landscape.
His books have become classics of New Zealand literature, capturing the country’s spirit of adventure and rugged individualism.
Ending Explained: Analyzing the Film’s Conclusion
The ending of Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a poignant and emotional moment that brings the film’s themes of family and self-discovery to a satisfying conclusion.
After a series of trials and tribulations, Ricky and Hector are reunited with Bella, who has passed away peacefully.
The film ends with Ricky and Hector standing on a mountaintop, looking out over the breathtaking New Zealand landscape.
The ending of the film is a reflection of the transformative power of nature and the importance of human connection.
Ricky and Hector’s journey through the bush has brought them closer together, allowing them to confront their pasts and embrace their futures.
The ending of the film is a celebration of the human spirit and our ability to find hope and love in even the most challenging of circumstances.
When does ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople 2’ come out ? Sequel updates
Given the huge success of ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople 2’, we are all waiting for the release date of the sequel or the announcement of a spin-off of the movie.
They do that about anything now, I don’t see why they wouldn’t do it about Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
In recent months, some statements by Taika Waititi and Sam Neill hint at an imminent date on the release of ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople 2’, and we will keep you updated as soon as we have a firm date.
While waiting for the official release of Hunt for the Wilderpeople’ new chapter, you could relive the emotions and mood of the movie by reading the book ‘Wild Pork and Watercress’ or Barry Crump’s other books.
Other Films by Taika Waititi
Taika Waititi, the director of Hunt for the Wilderpeople, is a prolific filmmaker with a diverse range of projects to his name.
Some of his other notable films include:
- Boy: A coming-of-age story set in rural New Zealand in the 1980s.
- What We Do in the Shadows: A mockumentary-style film about a group of vampires living in modern-day New Zealand.
- Thor: Ragnarok: A superhero film set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Waititi’s films are characterized by their unique sense of humor, heartfelt storytelling, and celebration of New Zealand culture.
Similar Films to Hunt for the Wilderpeople
If you enjoyed Hunt for the Wilderpeople, there are several other films that you may enjoy. Some of these include:
- Boy: Directed by Taika Waititi, this film is a coming-of-age story set in rural New Zealand in the 1980s.
- The Peanut Butter Falcon: A heartwarming story about a young man with Down syndrome who escapes from a nursing home and embarks on a journey to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional wrestler.
- The Way, Way Back: A coming-of-age story about a young boy who spends the summer at a beach house with his mother and her new boyfriend.
These films share similar themes of family, self-discovery, and the transformative power of adventure.
Other Books by Barry Crump and Comparable Reads to Wild Pork and Watercress
If you enjoyed Wild Pork and Watercress, there are several other books by Barry Crump that you may enjoy.
Some of these include:
- A Good Keen Man: A collection of stories about Crump’s adventures in the New Zealand wilderness.
- Hang On a Minute Mate: A humorous look at life in rural New Zealand.
- Bastards I Have Met: An entertaining and irreverent collection of stories about the people Crump has encountered in his travels.
These books share similar themes of adventure, humor, and love for the New Zealand landscape.
Conclusion
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a film that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, thanks to its unique blend of humor, heart, and adventure.
Taika Waititi’s adaptation of Barry Crump’s novel Wild Pork and Watercress has become a beloved addition to the New Zealand film canon, showcasing the beauty of the country’s landscapes and the warmth of its people.
From the memorable quotes and characters to the stunning soundtrack and filming locations, this comprehensive guide has explored the many facets of this beloved film.
