The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker
By Sabrina McFarland,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Social media star's link to murder case; language, violence.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
-
Diverse Representations
Images include social media fans who are BIPOC and White kids and teens, as well as young and older adults. TV reporters and producers, law enforcement, and the film's director are primarily White men and women.
Inclusion information: Female writers
Inclusion information powered by
Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker
Community Reviews
There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
In THE HATCHET WIELDING HITCHHIKER, Caleb "Kai" McGillvary becomes an internet icon after the nomad's TV interview about saving a woman from an assault is posted online in 2013. The publicity leads to Kai guest starring on a late-night talk show, a possible role on a reality TV series, and being considered by law enforcement officials as a suspect in a homicide case.
Is It Any Good?
The film takes a candid look at the emotional well-being of Caleb "Kai" McGillvary. In The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker, Kai admits to being an abused child before life as an unlikely hero. "He had so much charisma," recalls TV reporter Jessob Reisbeck. Fans shared selfies with the star, and TV crews considered Kai a commodity. "We knew we had gold on our hands," says camera person Terry Woods. But little attention is paid to Kai's mental health, a timely topic worthy of discussion by teens and their families.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the communication of the cast in The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker. How do they also demonstrate perseverance and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Do you think that Caleb "Kai" McGillvary was exploited by the media's mission to find the next pop culture phenomenon? Why or why not?
Mental illness issues may have had an impact on Kai's life. In what ways could you possibly help someone who may be facing a similar situation?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: January 10, 2023
- Cast: Caleb "Kai" McGillvary, Jessob Reisbeck, Terry Woods
- Director: Colette Camden
- Inclusion Information: Female writers
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: History
- Character Strengths: Communication, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 87 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
Inclusion information powered by
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate