Writers Criticise Film's Removal From Shelves

Wed, 18 Aug 2004

New Zealand Writers Guild Criticises Removal Of Local Film From Video Ezy Shelves

The New Zealand Writers Guild today criticised Video Ezy for suggesting its franchisees consider taking local film For Good off their shelves. Video Ezy's recommendation comes alongside remarks by Ron Burrows about the appearance of Steve Williams in the film. Some franchisees have reportedly already removed the movie from their stores.

Guild Executive Director Dominic Sheehan said "While the murder of Coral Burrows is a tragedy, pulling copies of the film constitutes knee-jerk censorship.

"It has been suggested 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. However, the public have now been deprived of an opportunity to hear this message.

"The removal of the movie from Video Ezy's 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.

"While we extend our sympathy to Mr Burrows, his anger should not be directed at the makers of For Good who have been unwittingly 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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