Raglanders won over by Julian

Julian Dennison, who plays the part of Ricky Baker in the hit new film Hunt for the Wilderpeople won the hearts of Raglanders at the Old School Arts Centre on Sunday afternoon (4th April). Taika Waititi, Director of the movie, had invited Raglan to join him and the cast to celebrate Raglan’s win as the best small town premiere. Close to 300 came Arts Centre to welcome the guests and get up close to Taika Waititi, Julian Dennison (Ricky Baker), Julian’s mum, Rima Te Waita and top executives from Madman Entertainment.

Raglanites dressed up as Uncle Hec, Auntie Bella, Ricky Baker, Andy/Police, Bella/Terminator, Psycho Sam, Hunters Ron or Hugh, while other came disguised as Real Good NZ Bush. Marcus Vernon from Te Mata came along with some horses.

While the crowd waited they were able to enjoy the award winning swannie themed cupcakes created by Abbie Morgan of True Food, just for the Raglan premiere, as well as scroggin biscuits plus fry bread from the kaumatua barbeque served with local pestos and relishes.

Richard Gemmell judged the dress up entries and announced the winners.

The visitors were called onto the Old School courtyard by Ngaronoa Renata. Led by Julian’s mum they were then welcomed by Rangatira Sean Ellison and Arts Council Chair Rodger Gallagher.

Taika Waititi then said a few words followed by Julian Dennison and Rima Te Waiata.  After taking a couple of questions, prizes were then presented for the best dress up costumes on the day.

Abbie Morgan presented a gift bag of a taste of Raglan food to the guests. Rodger thanked Madman for allowing the Old School to screen the movie and for their support of small communities.

While most of the special guests had to leave for other appointments, Julian decided to stay in Raglan for the night and catch up with his Whaingaroa whanau and grandmother. He joined his whanau at the 5pm Sunday screening of the movie. At the end of the film the audience gave a standing ovation.

Raglan’s Movies at the Old School won the competition for the top premiere for Hunt for the Wilderpeople for a rural cinema. The Raglan premiere was held at the Old School Arts Centre on Wednesday 30th.

The prize for the Raglan community going all out Facebooking, dressing up and having fun at the premiere was the visit from key cast and crew members of Hunt for the Wilderpeople.

Movies at the Old School is continuing to screen Hunt for the Wilderpeople.

Other screenings coming up:

Thursday 7th: 1pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm.

Friday 8th: 1pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm.

Sunday 10th: 4pm, 6pm and 8pm

Thursday 14th: 1pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm

Adults $14, Concession $12, Children $8.

For reserves phone 07 825 0023 and leave a message or email info@raglanartscentre.co.nz.

You can reserve seats using the links on our movies page: http://raglanartscentre.co.nz/films/