Born to Be Wild Poster

Born to Be Wild 1995

★ 5.343 votes100 min📅 1995-03-31

"What do you do when your best friend's a 400-pound gorilla? Anything she likes."

John Gray's *Born to Be Wild (1995)* follows Rick Heller, a troubled teen navigating the chaos of juvenile delinquency, until his mother assigns him to clean the cage of Katie, a massive gorilla trained in sign language.

Director: John Gray

Cast

Wil Horneff
Wil Horneff
Rick Heller
Helen Shaver
Helen Shaver
Margaret Heller
John C. McGinley
John C. McGinley
Max Carr
Jean Marie Barnwell
Lacey Carr
Peter Boyle
Peter Boyle
Gus Charnley
Leif Tilden
Leif Tilden
Katie The Gorilla
Gregory Itzin
Gregory Itzin
Walter Mallinson
Titus Welliver
Titus Welliver
Sergeant Bo Markle
Thomas F. Wilson
Thomas F. Wilson
Det. Lou Greenberg (as Tom Wilson)
Marvin J. McIntyre
Bob the Paramedic

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Born to Be Wild (1995) about?

*Born to Be Wild (1995)* tells the story of Rick Heller, a juvenile delinquent forced to care for Katie, a 400-pound gorilla trained in sign language. When Katie is taken for exploitation, Rick risks everything to free her and guide her to safety, leading to a journey that tests both their courage and trust.

Who directed Born to Be Wild?

The film was directed by John Gray, known for blending family-friendly themes with dramatic storytelling in *Born to Be Wild*.

Who stars in Born to Be Wild?

The cast includes Wil Horneff as Rick Heller, Helen Shaver as his mother, John C. McGinley as the gorilla's owner, and Peter Boyle in a supporting role.

Is Born to Be Wild (1995) worth watching?

While *Born to Be Wild (1995)* isn't a blockbuster, its unique blend of family drama and adventure offers a charming, offbeat story about unlikely friendships. Its heartfelt themes and Wil Horneff's earnest performance make it a hidden gem worth exploring for fans of lighter, character-driven films.

How long is Born to Be Wild?

The runtime of *Born to Be Wild (1995)* is 100 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Born to Be Wild (1995) — A Gorilla, a Troubled Teen, and an Unforgettable Adventure

John Gray's *Born to Be Wild (1995)* follows Rick Heller, a troubled teen navigating the chaos of juvenile delinquency, until his mother assigns him to clean the cage of Katie, a massive gorilla trained in sign language. When Katie's owner reclaims her to exploit her as a flea-market spectacle, Rick's defiance ignites a daring mission—rescuing the gentle giant and embarking on a heart-pounding journey to freedom.

This family drama blends adventure with deep emotional resonance, exploring themes of friendship, rebellion, and the unexpected bonds formed between humans and wildlife. The film's gritty yet tender atmosphere contrasts the raw energy of Rick's rebellion with the quiet dignity of Katie's silent communication, creating a unique cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.