Chapter 7 Summary: “A Normal Life”
1. The Meeting with Kahu and TK
After trekking through the bush to find help for the sick ranger, Ricky meets a girl named Kahu. She is cool, confident, and rides a horse, making Ricky’s “gangsta” act look a bit silly. She takes him back to her home, where he meets her dad, TK. Unlike the social workers who see Ricky as a “problem,” TK is incredibly laid-back.
2. The Selfie and the Modern World
Even though they are in the middle of the countryside, the “modern world” catches up with Ricky here. TK asks Ricky for a selfie to show off to his friends.
- This represents the modern world and the power of social media; even in a remote farmhouse, everyone is connected.
- It’s also quite funny and ironic—Ricky is a “wanted man,” yet here is a dad treating him like a famous celebrity. It shows how the media has turned a sad situation into a piece of entertainment for the public.
3. The Lie about his Mother
While they are relaxing, Kahu asks Ricky about his real mother. She asks what he would say to her if she were there. Ricky quickly says, “I don’t think about it,” claiming he doesn’t care.
- This is clearly a lie.
- Earlier in the film, we saw Ricky’s “haikus” and his sensitive nature. By lying, Ricky is trying to protect himself. He doesn’t want to admit how much he hurts or how much he misses the idea of a mother, because in his world, showing feelings makes you vulnerable.
4. Choosing the “Wilderpeople”
Despite the warm fire, the sausages, and the chance to stay with a kind family, Ricky decides to leave in the middle of the night to head back to Uncle Hec. He chooses the cold, dangerous bush over “A Normal Life.” This proves his loyalty to Hec is now his top priority.
Film Analysis for Your Portfolio
1. Symbolism: The Selfie
The selfie is a symbol of how the “Hunt” has become a trend. For TK, Ricky isn’t a child in danger; he’s a “legend” from the news. This highlights the theme of appearance vs. reality—the world sees a cool outlaw, but we know Ricky is just a lonely boy looking for a home.
2. Character Development: The Internal Conflict
Ricky’s lie about his mother shows his internal conflict. He wants to be a “hard” city kid, but his actions (saving the ranger, going back for Hec) show he is actually a very caring person. He uses his “tough” words as a shield to hide his sadness.
3. Contrast: The House vs. The Bush
The farmhouse is bright, warm, and full of talk. The bush is dark, quiet, and dangerous. By moving between these two settings, the director shows the two paths Ricky can take: a safe, “normal” life, or a life on the edge with Hec.
Chapter Seven: A Normal Life
- What is your impression of Kahu? Explain with evidence.
- Kahu’s dad asks for a selfie, what is the director telling us about people today?
- What does Ricky say about his relationship with Hec?
- Ricky produces a photo of his mum who gave him up. He says he doesn’t think about her much. Do you think this is true?
- How does the director create a contrast between Kahu and Ricky?