Imagine Into the Wild as a documentary. Brando, a spirited young man grappling with ADHD and a sense of disconnection from contemporary society, embarks on an incredible odyssey. At just 18, he decides to do something no one‘s ever done before: walk all the way around New Zealand‘s coastline. It takes him over two years, but that‘s just the start to a series of awe-inspiring adventures that span over a decade.
Now known as the ‘Wildboy’, he traverses the massive Greenland Icecap on skis and kayaks around Vancouver Island. But it‘s not just about the thrill. Along the way, Brando grapples with profound questions of identity, purpose, and mental well-being. After all, he’s gained a following as an ambassador for ADHD.
In his most challenging expedition yet, Brando confronts the unforgiving terrain of the Australian Outback on a bicycle, trying to get from the most western to the most eastern point. Extreme physical challenges, the serene beauty of the natural world, and old and new friends along the way make Brando‘s journey ‘wild’ in the best kind of way. With each pedal stroke (or step taken, when the sand is so deep he needs to push the bike), he delves into the recesses of his own psyche, as his life lessons learned throughout the previous adventures unfold.
Come along for the ride as Brando bikes, walks, skis, and kayaks his way to self-discovery, all against the backdrop of some of the most untamed corners on Earth.
This film was part of Fall Series 2024 and is no longer available for viewing.
WildBoy – Ten Years of Adventure, is an inspiring film that follows a young man’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Struggling with ADHD, Brando embarks on an extraordinary walk around New Zealand—a nearly two-year adventure that transforms his life. This largely unscripted expedition becomes a path to self-awareness, as Brando realizes that being active in the outdoors brings him a deep sense of peace and purpose. His newfound passion for adventure leads him to even greater challenges, including cycling across Australia’s outback and traversing Greenland. Wild Boy is a powerful reminder that embracing one’s differences is simply another way of embracing oneself.
– Andy Arts, VIMFF 2025 Jury