Sam Neill, the veteran actor known for his roles in Jurassic Park and The Piano, opens up about his experience on Taika Waititi's film Hunt for the Wilderpeople. In this candid interview, he reflects on the challenges and joys of working on the movie, particularly his portrayal of Hector Faulkner, a stoic and enigmatic character.Neill shares his thoughts on the film's humor, its connection to New Zealand culture, and the impact of his co-stars, including Julian Dennison and Rachel House.
Neill's perspective on the film's humor is intriguing. He acknowledges that while the novel Wild Pork and Watercress, on which the film is based, is not particularly amusing, Taika Waititi's adaptation brings a unique brand of comedy. He highlights the contributions of comedians and actors like Rima Te Wiata, whose performance as Bella adds depth and emotion to the story. The actor also mentions the spontaneous creation of the Ricky Baker birthday song, a memorable scene that has become an informal national anthem in New Zealand.
One of the more intriguing aspects of the interview is Neill's account of his relationship with the canine actor, Zag. He admits to not having the best rapport with the dog, which adds an unexpected layer to the film's narrative. The actor also reveals the creative process behind the portrayal of the wild boar that wounds Zag, involving a puppet pig and the dedication of the crew to bringing the scene to life. Despite the challenges, Neill's enthusiasm for the project is evident, as he values the film's impact on audiences and the memories it has created.
Julian Dennison, who played Ricky Baker, shares his perspective on the film and his collaboration with Neill. He discusses his own background and how it relates to the character of Ricky, a broken kid in the foster care system. Dennison's insight into the film's cultural references and the collaborative process with Taika Waititi is particularly engaging. He also mentions his acting coach, Rachel House, and the techniques she taught him, such as recording lines for rehearsal.
The interview concludes with a reflection on the film's impact and the actors' experiences. Neill and Dennison express their appreciation for the film's success and the memories it has created. They also address the misconception that Julian stole the film from Sam, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the project and the unique contributions of each cast member. The interview provides a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the personal connections formed during the making of Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
