Innocence Project fundraiser Conviction movie

A special preview of the new Hilary Swank movie CONVICTION will be screened as a fundraiser for the Innocence Project New Zealand (IPNZ) on Wednesday, February 23rd at Readings’ Courtenay Central Cinema, Wellington.

CONVICTION tells the true story of Kenny Waters, wrongly convicted of murder, who was supported by the Innocence Project, based in New York. IPNZ and the New York Innocence Project are members of the international organisation known as the Innocence Network.

Hilary Swank is nominated for Academy Awards best actress award for her performance as Berry Anne Waters, the uneducated mother of two who was so convinced her brother Kenny (Sam Rockwell) was innocent of the murder charges laid against him that she went back to high school and on through college to law school in what turned into an 18-year quest to free him. From Kenny’s arrest in 1983, during the time of Betty Anne’s struggle, DNA evidence came into use, and that supported his innocence. But, in addition, she had to track and confront witnesses who had lied on the stand and present new evidence before Kenny could be freed. Following the organisation’s successful involvement in the case, Betty Anne Waters now works for the Innocence Project in the United States.

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Dr. Matthew Gerrie, manager of IPNZ, says the film reflects issues that are commonly faced by those acting for wrongly convicted people. “Although the film is an American story, it is important to know that the similar types of errors can happen here. We can relate to many of the issues raised in the film, for example the glacial pace of the criminal justice system. We have experienced some of the same issues as experienced by Ms. Waters in the movie in our attempt to assist our first documented case—that of Alan Hall. Mr Hall was convicted of murder in 1986 and has always professed his innocence. Our review of his case led us to believe that Mr Hall’s case involved some areas of concern. However, investigating these areas has proven to be drawn out because of delays in locating evidence—a central theme in the movie, Conviction”

The Innocence Project New Zealand (IPNZ) investigates possible cases of wrongful conviction in the New Zealand legal system. The IPNZ is a joint venture between Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Otago. IPNZ investigates cases on a pro bono basis, and is raising funds to assist in the investigation of possible wrongful conviction cases here.

Tickets to the screening cost $25 and include a glass of sparkling wine. There will be a brief introduction to the movie and an opportunity to discuss wrongful conviction with members of IPNZ after the screening. Information about purchasing tickets for the fundraising screening are available from IPNZ’s website (http://www.victoria.ac.nz/ipnz/events/index.aspx)

CONVICTION is distributed in New Zealand by 20th Century Fox and will open in cinemas on February 24. Photos and trailer are available for download from http://www.foxonline.co.nz

View trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mhc7YPMe0Jc

Innocence Project New Zealand CONVICTION fundraising screening:

Wednesday February 23, 6.15pm, Readings Courtenay Central Cinema.

Tickets $25. Bookings: http://www.victoria.ac.nz/ipnz/events/index.aspx

ENDS

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