New Zealand hosts the launch of Commonwealth Shorts

New Zealand hosts the launch of Commonwealth Shorts

Academy Cinemas, Auckland: Tuesday 26 February, 6.30pm

Film-makers from across the Commonwealth will gather in Auckland to premiere five short films on the theme of relationships. The one documentary and four dramas explore migration, indigenous rights and same-sex relationships.

Commonwealth Shorts is a capacity building scheme to give emerging writers/directors the opportunity to make a film which highlights issues affecting them and their communities. The initiative is a partnership between Commonwealth Writers, B3 Media and The Commonwealth Broadcasting Association/Worldview.

‘It's been wonderful working with B3 Media and The Commonwealth Foundation, developing our local story with expertise and empathy from like-minded spirits from way across the waters. Just feeling part of a bigger international family gives the story a lovely weight.’
Oscar Kightley, New Zealand film-maker, Commonwealth Shorts

The launch of Commonwealth Shorts takes place at Academy Cinemas in Auckland, in association with Documentary NZ Trust and with support from the New Zealand Film Commission. This screening is the culmination of the 2012 Commonwealth Shorts project and follows a film production lab in Auckland for the five film-makers with seven writers/directors from the Pacific region.

‘These five films are the culmination of many months’ work by emerging international film-makers. We’re excited to be here with our local partners: Documentary NZ Trust and the New Zealand Film Commission to give the films their first screening. It’s also been an opportunity for film-makers from the wider Pacific region to benefit from a production lab and a chance for Commonwealth Writers to promote their work to a global audience,’
Lucy Hannah, Programme Manager, Commonwealth Foundation

‘There is a wealth of untold stories from the Pacific that deserve a wider international audience. This initiative will facilitate this voice to be heard.’
Alex Lee/Dan Shanan, Documentary Edge New Zealand

ENDS

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