Writers criticise Video Ezy's removing film

Wednesday 18 August 2004

The New Zealand Writers Guild today criticised Video Ezy's decision to remove local film For Good from its shelves.

Executive Director Dominic Sheehan said "Video Ezy's ban is knee-jerk censorship at its most illogical. While the murder of Coral Burrows is a tragedy, Video Ezy's actions are misguided and misinformed.

"It has been claimed that For Good contains parallels to Coral's murder. In fact it contains parallels to many similar murders in New Zealand's history as the movie is based on extensive research of such events. The message of For Good is one of justice and resolution. Video Ezy's decision means that the public have now been deprived of an opportunity to hear this message.

"The decision to remove the movie from the shelves will have a detrimental effect on the financial returns for the film. The New Zealand film industry works on a shoestring at the best of times and it is vital that every movie made here is able to maximise returns from all income streams, including DVD and video rentals.

"Video Ezy's actions have been based on remarks by Ron Burrows. While we extend our sympathy to him, his anger should not be directed at the makers of For Good who have been unknowingly caught up in this situation. It is unjust to punish an innocent party whose intention in making this film was to highlight the very issues facing the Burrows family."

ENDS

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