Filmmakers launch Grumpy Gus appeal

MEDIA RELEASE
28 July 2010 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Filmmakers launch Grumpy Gus appeal

The makers of award-winning Kiwi short films Teddy and Communication have launched a donation appeal to fund their new film, The Colonel’s Outing.

The Colonel’s Outing tells the story of two eighty-year-old male war veterans whose romantic relationship blossoms when they meet in a rest home, despite interference from a disapproving Matron.

Producer Andy Jalfon says the story is poignant and uplifting, and has already attracted the support of the Mental Health Foundation’s Out Of The Blue programme, which aims to combat and raise awareness of men’s depression.

“This story celebrates the independence of older people, connecting with others and the importance of family ties. It portrays a relationship between two men in the twilight of their lives in a way which few have cared to acknowledge or celebrate.”

The donation appeal has been launched online with a tongue-in-cheek Youtube clip featuring the film’s mascot, Grumpy Gus.

“We think Gus has come up with the catchphrase of the year,” says director Christopher Banks, who appears alongside Grumpy Gus in the clip. “While I do my best to appeal to people’s altruistic nature, Gus is rather more blunt.”

Everyone who donates to The Colonel’s Outing gets a free download of a new 5-minute short film, Snow, which has been produced exclusively for supporters.

“We don’t expect something for nothing,” Jalfon says. “$20 will get you a signed copy of The Colonel’s Outing DVD on release, $50 gets your name in the credits. We also have packages for corporate or business sponsors available, so do head along to the website and check it out.”

The Colonel’s Outing is being produced through Number 8 Films, a registered charitable trust that aims to increase opportunities for New Zealanders to see locally-made stories and provide training, support and assistance to people of all ages interested in performing and screen arts.

Number 8’s two previous films, Teddy and Communication, have screened in festivals around the world to critical and audience acclaim. Communication, released earlier this year, has picked up two international awards on its festival run to date. Both films were financed independently by the filmmakers.

ENDS

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