Rarely have I laughed so much in the cinema. Usually there are a few laughs to be had or maybe the odd the laugh, cringe moments depending on what comedy it is. But I haven't laughed constantly at a film in an age.
Taika Waititi's latest film, Hunt for the Wilderpeople, was a brilliant film. It's been so long since I've seen a cleverly written comedy and heartfelt story in one.
Young Ricky Baker, a troublesome chubby teenager who has been moved from care home to foster home all his life is sent to live with middle aged couple Bella and Hec who live in the edge of the New Zealand bush. The former gives him the home he has been looking for as well as teaching him some unusual skills such as plucking a rabbit, shooting wild animals and the significance of a hot water bottle. Gruff moody Hec on the other hand just lives with his presence. But tragedy strikes, leaving the two guys alone, Ricky is forced to leave. Before he can be collected by the merciless welfare officer, he escapes into the bush. Soon followed by Hec. But after a few misunderstandings, Ricky and Hec are soon the victims of a nationwide manhunt with enlightening and very funny results.
I really enjoyed the film, it was such a delight. Sending you on an emotional roller coaster while genuinely laughing all the way. The characters of Ricky and Hec (an excellent Sam Neil) are an obvious odd couple but with both their obscure lives and beliefs they make an excellent team.
In some ways, the humour and the way it's pieced together reminded me of Edgar Wright's films (I think Hot Fuzz I laughed alot too) and to the odd quirky side it also reminded me of Richard Aye one's films too. This is probably why I love Waititi's films. Something new but familiar.
In any other filmmakers hands i dont think the film would have been the hit it is and hopefully will be. With every film that Taika Waititi makes, the array of stories just get better and better. I can't wait to see what he makes next.
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