Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare family films that doesn't pander to kids or bore adults. Taika Waititi (who went on to direct Thor: Ragnarok and Jojo Rabbit) brings his signature offbeat humor to a genuinely moving story about a foster kid who finally finds where he belongs.

The heart of the film is the unlikely bond between Ricky (a self-proclaimed 'gangster' who's really just a hurt kid) and his grumpy foster uncle Hec. Their adventure through the New Zealand bush is funny, touching, and visually gorgeous. The film handles heavy topics—foster care, loss, belonging—with warmth and humor rather than heavy-handedness.

Parents should know: Bella's death early in the film is a genuine tearjerker, though it's handled with grace. There's some mild language, hunting scenes, and a dog gets shot (off-screen). The whole 'running from authorities' thing is played for comedy and based on misunderstandings, but younger kids might not fully grasp that nuance.

The literacy angle is lovely—Ricky writes haikus throughout to process his feelings, and it never feels forced. This is a film that respects kids' intelligence and emotional capacity while still being wildly entertaining. It's aged well since 2016 and feels fresh and watchable today.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-15. Younger kids might struggle with the sadness of Bella's death and some of the more subtle humor. Older teens won't be too cool for it—the comedy holds up—but it's really in that sweet spot for tweens who can appreciate both the heart and the quirk.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

78

Models unlikely friendship and cooperation between a troubled foster kid and his grumpy uncle. Themes of belonging, family, and finding your place are central. Some mild language and attitude, but ultimately emotionally healthy with genuine warmth. The cantankerous dynamic is played for comedy but resolves into mutual respect and care.

Imaginative

82

Taika Waititi's signature quirky humor and unique New Zealand setting make this feel fresh and original. The 'manhunt' premise is creative, blending adventure with deadpan comedy. Visually interesting with the wild bush landscape. Invites curiosity about survival, nature, and unconventional problem-solving. Not a formulaic adventure story.

Safe

68

Generally safe but has some elements parents should know about: mild violence (hunting scenes, some physical comedy), a foster care system that's portrayed as somewhat bumbling, references to a troubled past, and the death of a beloved character early on (Bella, the foster aunt) which is sad but handled gently. Some mild profanity. A dog gets shot (off-screen) which could upset sensitive kids. No gore, nudity, or sexual content. The 'defiant' kid aspect means some rule-breaking is celebrated.

Enriching

85

Excellent exploration of foster care, belonging, and found family. Shows a kid working through trauma and behavioral issues in a realistic way. Celebrates literacy (Ricky writes haikus throughout). Depicts resilience, survival skills, and the importance of human connection. New Zealand culture and landscape provide educational value. Genuinely funny and entertaining while delivering meaningful messages about not giving up on 'difficult' kids.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Taika Waititi's signature humor makes this genuinely funny for both kids and adults—deadpan, quirky, and never dumbed down
Thoughtful portrayal of foster care and what it means to belong, showing that 'difficult' kids aren't broken, just need the right fit
Celebrates literacy and creativity (Ricky writes haikus throughout) in a way that feels natural, not preachy
Stunning New Zealand scenery and survival adventure elements without being overly intense or scary
Models an unlikely friendship that develops through shared challenges—genuine character growth without being saccharine

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What to Watch For

Bella (the beloved foster aunt) dies early in the film—it's handled with warmth and humor but will likely make kids sad
Some mild language and Ricky's 'bad kid' attitude (though that's kind of the point—he's working through stuff)
Hunting scenes and a dog gets shot off-screen, which could upset animal-loving kids
The whole premise celebrates running from authorities and breaking rules, though in a comedic 'misunderstanding' context rather than genuine criminality

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think Ricky kept getting into trouble with different foster families? What changed with Bella and Hec?"
"If you had to survive in the wilderness, what skills would you want to learn? What would be hardest for you?"
"Ricky writes haikus to express his feelings. What are other ways people deal with tough emotions?"
"The authorities think Hec and Ricky are dangerous, but we know they're not. Why do you think people sometimes get the wrong idea about others?"
"What do you think makes a family a 'real' family?"

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