Generous Beth Fedyn sent me this copy of Hunt for the Wilderpeople. It’s a hoot! As far as I know, this movie never showed up in Western New York in 2016. Now, it’s on DVD so it many get more attention (and access). Hunt for the Wilderpeople is basically a two-actor show: Julian Dennison plays a troubled teenager named Ricky in New Zealand and Sam Neill plays a grumpy old man who attempts to take care of Ricky. Because of events too incredible to describe, Sam and Ricky are on the run in the wilds of New Zealand (fabulous scenery!) while most of the law enforcement of the country is chasing them.
This movie could have been a disaster if the actor who was cast as Ricky was a dud. Julian Dennison is perfect as a kid with problems. Sam Neill has chemistry with the kid despite his crankiness. Fun and funny! GRADE: B+
Saw this about 4 months ago and liked it. Sam Neill is a unappreciated actor, turning in good solid performances for 30 or so years.
Steve, I agree with you on Sam Neill. He’s been a quality actor for decades.
Beth sent me one for my birthday, but I’ve yet to watch it. I will do so soon. After reading your review, I have a vague feeling I did hear about it.
When I was at Bristol UK for Left Coast Crime some years ago, Sam Neill was staying at the hotel. He wasn’t too friendly as I recall. I think he was getting on an elevator as I was getting off and didn’t make eye contact. He’s a good actor, so I look forward to this.
Maggie, I’ve encountered famous people who have shied away from contact.
I usually like Sam Neill too. Never heard of this one before.
Jeff, Beth is enthusiastic about this movie…and rightly so!
Saw it here and liked it. Neill was even good playing the ultimate sleeze on RAKE.
Patti, I’ve liked Sam Neill in everything I’ve seen him in.
OK, I have a $1.25 Redbox credit and was able to hold it at my local place – it will cost us a quarter. Good deal.
Jeff, you will get more than a quarter’s worth of laughs from HUNT FOR THEWILDERPEOPLE!
Neill: SLEEPING DOGS
MY BRILLIANT CAREER
ATTACK FORCE Z
Those were nearly 40 years ago. I used to watch all the Australian and New Zealand movies I could find.
In 1983 he made his first real splash here, I’d say, starring as the title character in REILLY: ACE OF SPIES on PBS.
Jeff, you’re right about Sam Neill in REILLY, ACE OF SPIES! Good series!
We watched this last night and really enjoyed it. The kid was great. This is exactly the kind of small, goofy movie that Jackie loves.
Just got back from a vacation in the Twin Cities with Wilba. I made my first trip to Uncle Edgar’s in probably 20 years. I had to step it up because Wilba isn’t that interested in mysteries or science fiction (Uncle Hugo’s is the front bookstore) but I managed to snag 7 Westlake mysteries (only 1 duplicate that I already had) and a Mike Ripley. Used books are now half price, $4 minimum.
Glad you enjoyed this, George.
Beth, the Meyersons liked HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE, too! Thanks for the heads up (and the DVD!)!