2016 Sundance Film Festival Predictions: Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople

Taika Waititi‘s connection with the Sundance Film Festival has been a longstanding one. His constantly evolving funny bone swagger (aided and abetted alongside muse Jemaine Clement) is a key reason why this important has been a constant presence in Park City. Waititi has participated in the Institute’s many labs and in terms of film has supplied the fest with shorts Two Cars, One Night (2004) and Tama Tu (2005), and features Eagle vs. Shark (2007), Boy (2010) and What We Do in the Shadows (2014). Before his big move to studio features (Thor: Ragnarok is lined up next) the kiwi finally broke bread on the book adaption of a project that was first announced back in 2009. Starring Sam Neill , Julian Dennison, Stan Walker and Rhys Darby, filming took place this summer on Hunt for the Wilderpeople and depending on the budget size could have already have their tents packed or have a longer ways to go in post.

Gist: Ricky (Julian Dennison) is a bit of a mis-fit. All is going well with his new foster home until his new aunt passes away, leaving him alone with his grumpy uncle Hec (Sam Neill). The unlikely duo find themselves on the run in the vast New Zealand bush, evading child services and the law. They are forced to work together to survive and despite their differences, form a bond in this hilarious and heartfelt adventure.

Production Co./Producers: Carthew Neal, Leanne Saunders, Matt Noonan and Taika Waititi.

Prediction: Premieres or Sundance Kids category.

U.S. Distributor: Rights Available. TBD (domestic). Protagonist Pictures (international)

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