Do you ever wish for a compelling but simple story having no agenda? Something that every minute you watch you just smile, and say to yourself, “OMG, this is just so good!” If so, watch “Hunt for the Wilderpeople.” The story here is funny and touching, the scenery spectacular, and the actors create strong, believable characters. The original songs are hilarious and the occasional haiku poems a hoot. I have to give credit for this film to the director, Taika Waititi, who also wrote the screenplay based on the book “Wild Pork and Watercress.” Waititi has won accolades for his other movies like “What We Do in the Shadows,” “Thor: Ragnarok” and “Jojo Rabbit.” He is so clearly at the top of his game here, confidently balancing comedy with superb story-telling, making it just magical in its simplicity and wonder.
My thanks for learning about this movie go to my niece, Christen Phaenuf, who is staying with us for a few weeks. Since we can’t be out and about with Covid, we’re watching movies. It’s been a great time sharing personal favorites. This was one of hers and after watching it, I can see why, and it is now one of mine. It is a delightful experience to watch this movie. We rented this 2016 film from Amazon Video but I now see that it is free on Netflix. It stars Sam Neil and Julian Dennison, just 14 years old when the movie was made.