A Cry in the Wild is a 1990 American coming-of-age survival drama film based on the book Hatchet, written by Gary Paulsen. The film stars Jared Rushton as Brian, Pamela Sue Martin as Brian's mom, Stephen Meadows as Brian's dad, and Ned Beatty as the pilot. It spawned three sequels: White Wolves: A Cry in the Wild II; White Wolves II: Legend of the Wild; and White Wolves III: Cry of the White Wolf.

Synopsis

Brian Robeson and his mother stop by a sporting goods store on their way to the airport, where she buys him a package. Later, at the airport, Brian opens the package to find a hatchet inside. During his flight on a single-engine plane with the pilot, they exchange a few words. The pilot allows Brian to fly the plane, which he enjoys. However, the pilot suffers a heart attack and dies, causing the plane to crash in the wilderness of the Yukon. Now, Brian must survive in the harsh environment while also dealing with his parents' divorce.

Cast

Release

The film was released June 1, 1990. It aired for the first time on television in the United States on PBS as part of the series WonderWorks.

Reception

The film received mixed reviews from critics.