The World Premiere of Fing!, an Australian-British family comedy, delighted audiences at the Sundance Film Festival's Family Matinee section. Directed by Jeffrey Walker and based on David Walliams' bestselling children's book, the film features Taika Waititi as a bumbling antagonist pursuing a rare creature. The story follows a young girl's unexpected bond with the mythical Fing amid comedic family adventures.
Fing! premiered on January 24, 2026, at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, marking an unexpected highlight in the event's family-oriented programming. Adapted from British author David Walliams' popular children's book, which is one of his 41 titles translated into 55 languages, the screenplay by Walliams and Kevin Cecil expands the original tale by introducing a villainous character not present in the source material.
The narrative centers on 12-year-old Myrtle Meek, played by newcomer Iona Bell, a determined girl who demands a Fing—a rare, furry cyclops-like creature from the fictional Zybra jungle—as her birthday gift. Her parents, librarian Maureen (Mia Wasikowska) and Christopher (Blake Harrison), embark on a chaotic expedition to retrieve one, only to spark a rivalry with the Viscount, portrayed by Taika Waititi. The Viscount, owner of a struggling exotic animal showcase, dispatches his longtime nanny (Penelope Wilton) to capture the beast and save his business.
Upon arriving home, the Fing forms an affectionate, if disruptive, bond with Myrtle, echoing the warmth of films like E.T. and Paddington. The parents' quest for information leads to their dismissal from the library by the stern Chief Librarian (Robyn Nevin). Tensions escalate as the Viscount resorts to desperate measures to seize the creature, with the nanny ultimately siding with the Meek family.
Waititi's performance as the eccentric Viscount draws comparisons to Peter Sellers in Tom Thumb, stealing scenes with his comedic flair. Supporting roles shine, including Bell's fiery debut, Wasikowska's shift to a lighter role, and Wilton's seasoned poise. Additional cast members include David Walliams as the Headmaster, Sidhant Anann as Myrtle's friend Tyler, Richard Roxburgh, and Matt Lucas.
Under Jeffrey Walker's direction, the production crafts a vibrant fantastical world, bolstered by impressive visual effects and puppetry for the Fing. Producers Jo Sargent and Todd Fellman oversee this 96-minute film, handled for sales by AGC Sales. Critics note its whimsical charm will appeal to both children and adults, blending British wit with family-friendly adventure.
