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New Zealand's star continues to shine at Oscars

Monday, 6 March 2006, 10:59 am
Press Release: New Zealand Government

6 March 2006

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Oscar nominations for New Zealand films and continued international investment in the New Zealand screen production industry highlight the depth of New Zealand filmmaking, creativity and technological talent, says Economic Development Minister Trevor Mallard.

Trevor Mallard was speaking from Los Angeles where he is meeting film industry executives and attending a New Zealand government pre-Oscars event aimed at promoting the New Zealand film industry.

"The past few months represent a further milestone for New Zealand's screen industry, with the development and production of eight films shot in New Zealand," Trevor Mallard said.

These are King Kong The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe The World's Fastest Indian River Queen No.2 Perfect Creature Sione's Wedding 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous

"This is a momentous achievement. These eight films have not only been directed and written or co-written by New Zealanders, but they feature New Zealand locations, technology and a vast array of our creative talent."

This year sees seven Oscar nominations for films shot in New Zealand: Art Direction: King Kong Makeup: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Sound Editing: King Kong Sound Mixing: King Kong and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Visual Effects: King Kong and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

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Government support for the screen production industry through the Large Budget Screen Production Grants, which offers a 12.5 percent rebate on New Zealand production spending over NZ$15 million, is increasing the attractiveness of this country as a screen production location, Trevor Mallard said.

"The country's cutting edge post-production and digital effects infrastructure is adding to New Zealand's appeal.

"In terms of locations, New Zealand has been positioned as 'the world in one country' because of the stunning range of landscapes on offer.

"Combine that with the innovation and experience of the people working in screen production here, and you have a winning combination, delivering a competitive edge to any international production."

Trevor Mallard said that the new slate of films showcase the depth of New Zealand filmmaking and storytelling ability.

"They range from big-budget blockbusters to unique New Zealand stories with universal themes and appeal. The global nature of the film industry means these films have had part or full financing from international investors, reflecting a further sign of confidence in New Zealand's capacity to successfully establish global alliances in filmmaking."

Background on film leveraging activities

The government through NZTE has allocated $1 million for promoting the NZ film industry through the following activities. King Kong: New York (world premiere) and special screenings/premieres in London, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Wellington for film industry members, media and current and potential trade/investment business partners. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: London (world premiere) and special screenings in Los Angeles and Auckland for film industry members, media and current and potential trade/investment business partners.

World's Fastest Indian, Perfect Creature and River Queen in particular: Focus on leveraging international events in key offshore markets of UK, USA, Australia and selected Asian markets. Specific New Zealand-focused advertising placed in international publications to ensure that there is a close association with New Zealand and these films, December 2005.

An international media programme into New Zealand around the King Kong and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Australasian premieres to showcase New Zealand screen production and related technology/ICT and creative industries to international media, Wellington/Auckland December 2005. Special events around high-profile occasions such as the Oscars in Los Angeles, March 2006, including a pre-Oscar event in LA to promote the capabilities of the New Zealand film industry.

New Zealand Film Leveraging Funding 2005/2006

King Kong, and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe$581,000
NZ feature films$200,000
Other initiatives $219,000

ENDS

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