Hunt for The Wilderpeople - Subtle Comedy

Since its introduction in the late 1800s, the Comedy genre has become an integral tool for classic and contemporary directors  to enthrall audiences with their productions. More recently, this has been witnessed within modern-day cinema, as several directors are utilising comedic conventions to engage an array of differing viewers. Directed by Taika Waititi, Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) is one example of a mainstream film that incorporates Comedy codes and conventions, to convey an appealing story. Specifically, the film’s representation of stereotypical characters; application of technical codes like naturalistic camera movements and comedic conventions such as witty dialogue; all contribute to its engaging nature. Moreover, the representation of several cheerful themes also ensures the film is enjoyable for audiences of all ages. When considering this, it is apparent that Waititi’s careful representation of comedic codes and conventions will permit Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) to  become a cult classic for audiences both now and in the future.

Originally produced by Piki Pictures, the film’s central characters are clearly constructed to represent comedic stereotypes, so that their interactions amuse a contemporary audience. Notably, the primary protagonist, Ricky Baker, is conveyed in a highly stereotypical manner which utilises comedic conventions to make him humorous for viewers. This is particularly noticeable within his portrayal as an unintelligent and socially awkward juvenile who wishes to be a gangster. Such traits, which have become standard within other Waititi films like Thor Ragnarök, help to create uncomfortable exchanges for the character when engaging with other, more ordinary individuals. It, thus, inspires humour among audiences as they witness a clear contrast between Ricky’s understanding of life, as opposed to an average person’s perception of what is socially acceptable. The secondary protagonist, Hector, is also portrayed as a stereotypically grumpy old man, who clearly contrasts Ricky’s nature. This contrast thereby enables the film to develop comedy through witty dialogue, as these two individuals regularly have conflicting ideologies when conversing. Waititi’s use of Close Up and Extreme Close Up shots, on facial expressions, also permits the characters to visibly portray their reactions and shock at comical situations. Consequently, audiences are able to better understand the film’s humorous scenarios, as they can easily relate to the character emotions. Evidently, the director has expertly represented his characters in an engaging and comedic way in order to enthrall a mainstream audience.

The film’s use of technical and audio codes is also integral in exhibiting an engaging and humorous experience for audiences. In particular, the careful representation of situations through shot types, camera angles and music is masterfully controlled by Waititi to engage his viewers. Such use of technical and audio codes is noticed from the outset, whereby the movie immediately utilises operatic, loud and cheerful melodies within its early soundtrack. This audio composition, which reflects the upbeat music of classical Comedy films, helps incite laughter among audiences as it establishes a joyous mood within the narrative. Similarly, the direction to cut music files, during dialogue sequences, also enables the film to amuse audiences by creating a balance between subtle, wit-based humour, and more obvious jokes. A prolific application of Eye Level Wide Shots and naturalistic camera movements, like Panning, also allows for a passive viewing experience. This imagery enables audiences to focus more on the character interactions, dialogue and narrative, as opposed to jarring or unnecessary cinematography. Such a technique is also demonstrated through an array of Extreme Long Shots featuring New Zealand’s serene mountains and countryside, which help audiences relax. Clearly, Waititi has drawn upon several codes from the Comedy genre to construct an immersive world for modern-day viewers.

Waititi’s application of multiple Comedy conventions, when directing Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), is also highly important in allowing the film to captivate audience members. His noticeable use of natural lighting, for example, draws viewers into the film’s narrative as it represents a bright atmosphere that stimulates a mood of happiness. This lighting is perfectly illustrated through the film’s setting, which primarily takes place outdoors in the hills of New Zealand, as artificial lights are not required to illuminate the shots. Consequently, the brightness found within the natural lighting of these outdoor scenes helps represent the film’s upbeat tone. The screenplay’s employment of a linear narrative, which is divided by chapters, also enables the film to incite humour among audiences. Specifically, the representation of a simple fugitive story, in this manner, permits audiences to better focus their attention on the comical relief found within character interactions and dialogue. This narrative structure is thereby able to draw audiences into the film, as they can escape into a smoother viewing experience without having to think about the story. Such representation of typical Comedy storytelling, thus, contributes to the film’s humorous elements. It is obvious that Waititi has used a variety of conventions from the Comedy genre, to convey an enjoyable film to his viewers.

While there is little doubt that Comedic codes and conventions played a major influence in shaping the film’s humour, the representation of several joyous themes was also paramount in interesting audiences. Within Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), this is noticeable where the screenwriters have cleverly conveyed the importance of family and friendship throughout the central narrative. In particular, Ricky Baker’s development from an orphaned juvenile whom despises family, into a young man willing to accept Hector as his adopted father, gives the story a heart-warming feel. Being a reasonably emotional and resonant theme, this message regarding family enables the film to engage a viewer’s attention, even when comedy is not being used. Similarly, the script’s interwoven message about the importance of having aspirations is also integral in captivating viewers. Such a theme is exemplified within the character ark of Hector, as he learns to read after being illiterate. Through the depiction of this journey, audiences are drawn into the action as they are shown the value in goal setting and personal betterment. It is clear that the director has masterfully mixed the representation of these themes with a range of Comedy conventions, in order to connect with the audience.

After careful analysis, it is evident that Waititi has utilised a variety of Comedy techniques to bring his original vision to life. Specifically, the film, Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), is laden with Comedic codes and conventions which combine to create a positive viewing experience for audiences. This may be witnessed through the film’s stereotypical characters, clever editing and comical conventions which enable the movie to interest contemporary audiences. Similarly, the representation of several important themes and concepts also keeps the film investable, thus contributing to its audience appeal. Overall, Waititi has masterfully managed to portray an interesting take on modern Comedy by creating a film that will be enjoyed by audiences long into the future.