NEWS

News

Charlotte Rampling Drama ‘Juniper’ Acquired by Parkland Entertainment For U.K., Ireland (EXCLUSIVE)

by Variety — 29 April 2022

Charlotte Rampling starrer “Juniper” has been picked up by distributor Parkland Entertainment in the U.K. and Ireland.

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‘Milked’: Dairy NZ CEO Tim Mackle and documentary-maker Chris Huriwai go head to head over controversial film

by News Hub — 2 May 2022

A new documentary is making waves by questioning one of New Zealand's biggest industries.

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NZ Film Commission launches conflicts of interest review

by Stuff — 4 May 2022

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) has launched a review into how it manages potential conflicts of interest after a funding application to turn a script written by its boss into a television series was approved by NZ On Air.

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The curious case of The Pilgrim, a decade-old script tearing the screen industry apart

by The Spinoff — 4 May 2022

A row over a 10-year-old screen project has engulfed the New Zealand film and TV industries, with the chief executive of the Film Commission on leave and lawyers involved.

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Netflix cancels in-production titles after subscriber loss

by NewstalkZB — 26 April 2022

Netflix is already making moves after the distressing news it had lost 200,000 subscribers in the first three months of this year, resulting in a stock price plunge which wiped billions off its market value.

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Blockbuster Avatar 3D sequel being completed in Wellington for December release

by Wellington — 28 April 2022

Director James Cameron is overseeing completion of his second Avatar film in Wellington, ready for its opening day on December 22.

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Grand revival for Dannevirke cinema after lying dormant for a decade

by Stuff — 23 April 2022

There is always an excitement when the cinema lights dim, but exultation will likely be the emotion of choice for at least three of the movie buffs inside The Regent in Dannevirke on Saturday night.

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More National Treasures – NZ On Air And Te Māngai Pāho Co-fund Champions Te Reo Māori Content

by Scoop — 21 April 2022

Irirangi Te Motu NZ On Air and Te Māngai Pāho’s fourth co-funding round has awarded 11 bilingual projects up to $5.9m to further champion the use of te reo Māori across a wide variety of platforms.

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Kāpiti film-maker returns from the US to create short film in hometown

by Kapiti News — 19 April 2022

Aspiring film director Mason Cade Packer is returning to Kāpiti from his base in Los Angeles to create a short film as an ode to his childhood, former school and the people of Kāpiti.

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‘Power of the Dog’ Helps New Zealand Open Up for Business With New Studios, Fresh Tech Investments

by Variety — 25 March 2022

Whether or not “The Power of the Dog” wins the big prize at the Academy Awards on Sunday, David Strong, chief executive of the New Zealand Film Commission for the past eight months, is guaranteed to be an in-demand visitor to Los Angeles over the next week.

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‘We don’t need to be Hollywood’: New Zealand’s film industry under review

by Stuff — 27 March 2022

With NZ poised for another successful Oscars award season, the Government is reviewing the multi-million dollar grant it uses to lure productions into the country. Virginia Fallon reports.

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Star power shines for Kiwi screen sector after Oscars win

by Mirage — 28 March 2022

The Arts and Economic Development Ministers say the New Zealand screen sector can take a bow after The Power of the Dog won the coveted Best Director Oscar at today’s Academy Award ceremony in Los Angeles.

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Oscars: Jane Campion wins best director for The Power of the Dog

by 1 News — 28 March 2022

New Zealand filmmaker Jane Campion has won the best director Oscar for her film The Power of the Dog.

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Film studio proposal near Wanaka will have theme park element

by RNZ — 4 March 2022

A proposal for a large film studio complex near Wanaka will also include a theme park element, but one of the directors says it won't be in the style of Disneyland.

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Graham Norton’s novel Holding to screen on New Zealand television

by Stuff — 10 March 2022

Graham Norton’s well-received debut novel Holding has been turned into a darkly comic four-part thriller with the cream of Irish talent.

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Decision to merge TVNZ and RNZ draws mixed response

by Stuff — 10 March 2022

A decision to merge TVNZ and RNZ into a new public media entity has received a guarded reception from several quarters, but has been applauded by the two broadcasters.

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TVNZ among big winners at New Zealand Television Awards

by One News — 1 March 2022

TVNZ people and programmes were among the big winners at this year’s virtual presentation of the New Zealand Television Awards, taking home 14 coveted awards.

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New Indie Movie “Mysterious Ways” Filming In Auckland, May 2022

by Scoop — 14 February 2022

Mysterious Ways is a timely exploration of issues around faith for gay people both here in New Zealand and around the world. It’s a side of the rainbow community not often explored on the screen, and we are thrilled to be attracting great talent to tell the story.

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Trailer Released For Indigenous Sci-fi Thriller Night Raiders

by Scoop — 17 February 2022

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Waitangi Weekend Trailer Launch For NZ Film Whina

by Scoop — 05 February 2022

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Oscar Nominations A Big Win For New Zealand

by Scoop — 09 February 2022

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) says New Zealanders can stand proud today with the announcement Dame Jane Campion’s feature film The Power of the Dog has received 12 Oscar nominations.

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Animated hit show made in Christchurch could be heading to big screen

by Stuff — 2 February 2022

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Covid 19 Omicron outbreak: Government grants more financial support for Arts and culture sector

by NZ Herald — 2 February 2022

The Government has announced the Arts and Culture Event Support Scheme will be boosted by $70 million.

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‘We can shoot any world we want’: New $95m film studio planned for Christchurch

by Stuff — 22 January 2022

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First look at Amazon’s Lord of The Rings filmed in Auckland

by NZ Herald — 20 Jan 2022

Amazon has unveiled the first look at the Lord of The Rings series filmed in Auckland

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The new Auckland festival trying to fill the film calendar’s NZIFF-shaped hole

by The Spin Off — 17 January 2022

This year, things are going to be easier for Auckland-based film buffs hoping to complete their Oscars scorecard in time for awards season. A new two-week film festival, called ‘In The Shade’, kicks off later this week, boasting a formidable line up of some 2021’s most acclaimed films.

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Film X shot in Whanganui set for release in March

by NZ Herald — 14 Jan 2022

"We looked at the US, we looked at Western Australia and we looked at New Zealand. When the New Zealand plans came together, we thought this was by far the best option. The locations here sealed the deal."

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Michael Bay, Gareth Evans And Patrick Hughes Team On New Reimagining Of Evans’ ‘The Raid’ For Netflix

by Deadline — 10 January 2022

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Silverlight Studios gain resource consent for $280 million studio near Wānaka

by Newstalk ZB — 9 December 2021

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Richness of real-life stories to be shared on Aotearoa screens in 2022

by NZ On Air — 3 December 2021

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Luring the next Lord of the Rings: short film showcases Canterbury’s cinematic beauty

by Charlie Gates — 6 December 2021

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Another Poke in the Eye for Authors and Publishers from New Zealand’s Libraries

by Hugh Stephens — 2 December 2021

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National Library hits pause on Internet Archive deal days before deadline

by André Chumko — 29th November 2021

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NZFC Supported Productions Make the Finals of the New Zealand Television Awards

by New Zealand Film Commission — 25 November 2021

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Four Screen Projects Selected In The Interim Production Round Of The $50 Million Te Puna Kairangi Premium Fund

by Scoop Media — 2 December 2021

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COVID Protocols Add About 5% to Film and TV Production Costs, Study Finds

by Gene Maddaus — 16 November 2021

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Takeaways and Coke at the genesis of NZ’s film industry

by Tom Hunt — 20 November 2021

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Sarah Lewthwaite and Matthew Liebmann to Take the Reins at Movio Following Departure of Co-Founder & CEO Will Palmer in December

by Business Wire — 23 November 2021

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Sir Peter Jackson to sell Weta Digital tech division to US-based gaming company

by Craig Kapitan — 10 November 2021

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Change In Copyright Term Will Have Huge Effect On Libraries

by Scoop Media — 2 November 2021

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How a stressed-out Hamilton movie buff saved 300 film festivals (and counting)

by Chris Schulz — 3rd November 2021

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Te Puna Kairangi Premium Productions Fund Final Production Round Opens Monday 6 December

by NZ Film

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Auckland Celebrates Netflix Global Premiere Of Cowboy Bebop

by Scoop Media — 18 November 2021

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Otago animals hit big screen for Jane Campion movie The Power of the Dog

by Tracie Barrett

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New Zealand International Film Festival premieres in Wellington, director ‘thrilled’

by Vita Molyneux

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Rotorua film studio pitches for expansion as Govt celebrates $2b spend on regional development

by Felix Desmarais Local Democracy Reporter

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Auditions To Commence For The Maori Language Version Of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Iconic Film The Lion King

by Scoop Media

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Government Announces Delta Support For Screen and Wider Arts & Culture Sectors

by New Zealand Film Commission

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Auckland cinemas dealt new blow after Film Festival pulls out of city

by Ethan Sills

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New Action-drama Film ‘Muru’ Announced For Nationwide Release In February 2022

by 818 Entertainment

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OTT on the rise in Australia and New Zealand

by DTVE Reporter

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Homegrown Content Rates High With Kiwi Students And Teachers

by NZ On Air

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Dame Jane Campion’s newest film to open 2021 New Zealand International Film Festival

by Steven Walton

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Cliff Curtis’ Murina, Kiwi co-production Night Raiders among Toronto Fest’s best

by James Croot

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$37.5 million of Creative Sector Delta Support Announced

by The Big Idea

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Kiwi Film Director To Helm Movie Adaptation Of His Novel

by Scoop Media

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Actors Union Calls For Fair Funding For Māori Stories On Screen

by Scoop Media

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Matrix star to film in Christchurch as five screen projects get local funding

by Charlie Gates

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Kiwi Thriller Coming Home in the Dark Fast Tracked to Video on Demand

by New Zealand Film Commission

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Calling Home: Jessica Hobbs in London

by Sunday Morning

It's been a big week for New Zealand TV director Jessica Hobbs following her breakthrough Emmy win for her work on The Crown.

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Aotearoa New Zealand Screen Sector Strategy 2030 Released

by AOTEAROA NEW ZEALAND SCREEN SECTOR

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Million-dollar regional screen production grant

by Press Release: Christchurch NZ

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Whanganui film office set up to boost economy and support local talent

by Moana Ellis

A Regional Film Office has been established in Whanganui to stimulate economic growth, support local film industry talent and potentially help grow Whanganui as a regional screen production hub.

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Film Industry Creative Experts Turn Their Hands To Producing The World’s Healthiest Desk

A talented group of creative experts at Scale Studios in Wellington have turned their hands from making film sets and props for local and international film blockbusters including Thunderbirds Are Go and Joseph Gordon Levitt’s recent production Mr Corman, to crafting the ergonomics of Limber - the world’s healthiest desk - which has seen sales quadruple following the latest COVID-19 lockdown and people returning to working at home.

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Tinsel over Twizel movie makers still hope to get to Twizel

by Keiller MacDuff

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The Power of the Dog: First look at Jane Campion’s star-studded movie filmed in New Zealand

by NZ Herald — 27.8.2021

One of the major Hollywood projects filmed in New Zealand in 2020 has unveiled its first trailer

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Upper Hutt set to attract international film productions with $45m studio under construction

by Matthew Tso — 11.8.2021

“Wallywood” is set to become the latest part of Wellington’s booming screen industry with a $45 million studio development under construction north of the capital.

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LOTR has departed. Covid-19 is back. What does that mean for our screen sector?

by Andre Chumko — 21.8.2021

On Friday morning workers on Amazon's Lord of the Rings streaming series were informed that future seasons of the show would not be shot in New Zealand. Amazon is moving future production to the UK where they already make several other series.

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Showcasing Auckland: Why an Aussie murder-mystery series moved to Avondale

by Adam Jacobson — 15.8.2021

An Auckland squash club has played a key role in an Australian murder-mystery television series as the city’s flourishing screen industry puts a premium on studio space.

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Move over Wellywood, it’s time for … Christywood?

by Charlie Gates — 31.7.2021

Christchurch is favoured because of its access to spectacular locations, a local council that is prepared for film production, good amenities, international airport, and local industry.

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Film subsidy gamble

by Otago Daily Times — 24.8.2021

New Zealand’s attempt to attract international film-makers here by offering government subsidies is a gamble and, since we do not hold all the cards, we cannot expect to win every time.

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Lord of the Rings shift to UK could see skilled workers leave NZ

by RNZ — 15.8.2021

The film industry fears skilled workers will go overseas after it was confirmed this week that further seasons of Amazon's Lord of the Rings TV series will be made in the UK.

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Lord of the Rings Amazon exit fallout: Auckland Film Studios rebuild being ‘reviewed’

by Tom Dillane — 23.8.2021

A $35 million Government project to rebuild Auckland Film Studios is now being "prudently reviewed" after Amazon Studios' abrupt departure from filming the Lord of the Rings TV series in New Zealand.

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Government pulls support for Lord of the Rings TV series

by NZ Herald — 13.8.2021

The Government will no longer go ahead with part of the deal to support The Lord of the Rings TV series, after Amazon Studios decided to quit New Zealand and shift production to the United Kingdom.

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Return of the Rings: Govt hopes Amazon will come back to film more seasons

by Jonathan Milne and Bonnie Summer — 6.8.2021

Amazon has retained its leases on Auckland's biggest film studios, locking out other productions but offering worried workers some confidence that it will film further seasons in NZ.

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Budget 2021: Film subsidies better for wellbeing than housing and climate change

by Thomas Coughlan — 5.8.2021

A wellbeing impact analysis for dishing out $199 million in subsidies to filmmakers has found it to be better for the Government's budget priorities than money for public housing and climate change, and gives it roughly the same impact rating as $296m investment in clean water.

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Government slow to make Google pay for local news

by Stephen Parker — 12.8.2021

The Government has been hoping the social media giants will come to the table and start paying local media for news content without the threat of a law change.

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Indonesia’s Bali draws investor interest to build film studios

by Ian Lloyd Neubauer — 9.8.2021

With undeniably dreamy backdrops and colorful local culture, the Indonesian island of Bali has lured foreign filmmakers for nearly as long as there has been film.

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Government Support Screen Industry With Funding For Sound Stages In West Auckland

by New Zealand Government — 3.8.2021

Auckland Film Studios in West Auckland has received funding for a major expansion through the Government’s Infrastructure Reference Group’s (IRG) COVID-19 Response Fund.

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$35m of public money for Auckland studio a ‘kick in the teeth’ for South Island

by Charlie Gates and Debbie Jamieson — 5.8.2021

Public funding for a $35 million film studio extension in Auckland is a “kick in the teeth” for those planning to build a major movie production base in the South Island, an industry expert says.

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Suzy Amis Cameron on why she and husband James have put down roots in New Zealand

by Tracy Watkins — 1.8.2021

Suzy Amis Cameron says her most treasured, joyous days in New Zealand are spent on the family farm.

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Coming Home in the Dark: New Kiwi movie set to shock and awe audiences around the world

by Mike White — 1.8.2021

Owen Marshall’s short story Coming Home in the Dark has been turned into a movie and is about to be launched around the world.

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Auckland Film Studios gets $30 million government funding for expansion

by RNZ — 3.8.2021

Auckland Film Studios is getting $30 million from the Government to expand its capacity.

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Return of the Rings: Govt hopes Amazon will come back to film more seasons

by Bonnie Sumner — 5.8.2021

Amazon has retained its leases on Auckland's biggest film studios, locking out other productions but offering worried workers some confidence that it will film further seasons in NZ.

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The Lord of the Rings TV series finishes filming in New Zealand, after COVID-19 delay

by Tom Williams — 3.8.2021

The first season of an Amazon Studios TV series based on The Lord of the Rings has finished filming in New Zealand, after a slight delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Massive film set unveiled for Wanaka includes replicas of New York, Venice and Paris

by Hamish McLean — 5.8.2021

The mammoth scale of a film studio planned for the outskirts of Wanaka, set to include replicas of New York, Venice and Paris, has been revealed in plans lodged with the Government.

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Director Waititi shares indigenous humor in film ‘Reservation Dogs’

by AFP — 8.8.2021

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Free courses to target national skills shortage in film industry

by Anna Patty — 9.8.2021

Netflix has partnered with Screenworks and the NSW government to provide free skills training for entry into screen industry careers to address a national shortage of film crews.

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23 New And Returning Factual Projects To Hold A Mirror Up To New Zealand Society

by NZ on Air — 16.7.2021

NZ On Air has announced over $9m of funding for Factual projects that reveal powerful insights about Aotearoa’s past, present and future.

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Hunga Taunaki ā Rorohiko – Online Mentorship Announcement

by New Zealand Film Commission — 8.7.2021

Ten screen storytellers have been matched with experienced New Zealand mentors in the 2021 round of Hunga Taunaki ā Rorohiko, the New Zealand Film Commission’s online mentorship programme.

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Jane Campion & See-Saw Films Masterclasses

by New Zealand Film Commission — 8.7.2021

The NZFC is inviting eligible New Zealand filmmakers to apply for two one-off masterclasses, based around the Netflix Original film, The Power of the Dog, and presented by See-Saw executives and Jane Campion, respectively.

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Screen Australia, NZ on Air and TikTok announce the EVERY VOICE Initiative

by Screen Australia — 19.7.2021

Screen Australia, NZ On Air and TikTok have today announced the launch of Every Voice, a new initiative to support diverse and distinct creators in the creation of innovative content exclusively for TikTok.

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Premium Development Funding Announced For 19 Screen Projects

by New Zealand Film Commission — 2.7.2021

19 screen projects have been offered a total of $1.5 million of development funding in the first round of Ara ki Te Puna Kairangi – The Premium Development Fund.

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National Library Partners With Internet Pirates

by Scoop NZ — 15.7.2021

The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc (NZSA) and the Publishers Association of New Zealand Te Rau o Tākupu (PANZ) are shocked the National Library of New Zealand (NLNZ) has announced plans to handover hundreds of thousands of books from its collection to the notorious Internet Archive.

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Screen Industry Guild President defends subsidies for overseas movies

by Nick Mills — 22.7.2021

Following revelations They Are Us director Andrew Niccol did not want Jacinda Ardern's Office to read script, which could get $20m taxpayer funding, Wellington Mornings Host Nick Mills asks should the government be subsidising films at all.

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No Public Money Given to They Are Us Film Project

by New Zealand Film Commission — 22.7.2021

Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) today confirmed that no Government money has been given or promised to the They Are Us project, and the NZFC has had no role in the development of the concept or script.

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Maori Women Take Center Stage in New Zealand Film

by Russell Subiono — 30.6.2021

“Cousins," a new film from New Zealand, makes its Hawai‘i premiere this week. Based on a 1992 novel with the same name, it focuses on three women—three cousins—over the course of several decades.

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Princess of Chaos: $2.6m funding for Bevan Chuang and Len Brown film

by NZ Herald — 20.6.2021

The sordid saga of former mayor Len Brown, ex-council adviser Bevan Chuang, and the Town Hall's Ngati Whatua room is to be played out in a publicly funded telefeature for TVNZ.

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Starstruck sees New Zealand comedian Rose Matafeo spin her smarts and dry humour into rom-com gold

by Hannah Story — 24.6.2021

Starstruck centres on Jessie (Matafeo), a Kiwi in her late 20s living in London, who stumbles into dating Hollywood star Tom (Nikesh Patel, Four Weddings and a Funeral).

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Wellington film techies building ‘disruptive’ software to make films cheaper to produce

by Marta Steeman — 25.6.2021

Film techies Amber Marie and Victor Naveira are building software with the potential to dramatically lower the cost of making movies.

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Fast and Furious 9 earns biggest opening weekend for New Zealand cinemas in 18 months

by Glenn McConnell — 22.6.2021

Although New Zealand’s cinemas are open, it’s been a dire 16-months for cinemas thanks to Covid-19. But in the form of Fast and Furious 9, the light at the end of the tunnel has arrived.

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Sky TV joins Disney to lure broadband customers to its service

by Chris Keall — 9.6.2021

Sky is offering a year's free Disney+ access to anyone who signs up for at least 12 months to its new broadband service.

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Motorways closed for filming in Christchurch for a major Amazon movie production

by Charlie Gates — 24.6.2021

A stretch of busy Christchurch motorway will be closed on Saturday and Sunday morning to make way for the first major film to be shot in Christchurch for four years.

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Filmmaker Derrick Sims establishes Tararua Cinematheque to share his passion and knowledge

by Paul Mitchell — 24.6.2021

An American-born filmmaker is hoping to bring a piece of Hollywood culture to Tararua, with a new film group to support hidden gems of cinema in the district.

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Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission Names New CEO

by New Zealand Film Commission — 14.6.2021

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is pleased to announce the appointment of David Strong as its new CEO.

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NZ producer Chelsea Winstanley honoured for her work

by The Big Idea Editor — 8.6.2021

Making it to the top of your industry can be achieved by taking one of two directions; following the well-trodden path of others' success - or blazing your own trail.

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NZ producer steps down as proposed film about Christchurch attacks receives increased public criticism

by TVNZ — 14.6.2021

A New Zealand producer for the proposed Christchurch terror attacks film has withdrawn following intense criticism and accusations of whitewashing in the days after its announcement.

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Kiwi actor Vinnie Bennett and the top secret Fast & Furious role even he can’t really talk about

by Chris Schulz — 18.6.2021

When Vinnie Bennett walked into a popular East Auckland cafe on a blustery Wednesday morning this week, no heads turned

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Friends roll out red carpet for actor who can’t make New York film premiere

by Charlie Gates — 18.6.2021

When Kiwi actor Amber Ranson couldn’t get to New York for the premiere of her short movie at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival, her drama school friends put on a red carpet event for her in Christchurch.

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Not my story: Ardern says mosque attack film should focus on Muslim community not her

by Praveen Menon — 14.6.2021

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the Muslim community in her country should be the focus of any film about the Christchurch mosque attacks after some community members raised objections to a movie focussing on her response to the bloodshed.

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Testing kayak trip inadvertently generated award-winning film

by Marjorie Cook — 9.6.2021

It was a bit quiet in Wanaka after the Covid-19 lockdown lifted last year, so film-maker Richard Sidey and photographer Chris Thompson decided to go on an adventure to New Zealand's third-largest island, Stewart Island.

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James Cameron’s love letter to New Zealand

by Tracy Watkins — 6.6.2021

Hollywood heavyweights James and Suzy Amis Cameron have revealed they are now living in New Zealand full time – and in an emotional tribute, have praised the country as a world leader and “giant’ on the international stage.

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Sam Raimi-Produced Evil Dead Rise Begins Filming in New Zealand

by Maggie Dela Paz — 7.6.2021

Director Lee Cronin took to Twitter to reveal that production on New Line Cinema’s upcoming fifth installment to the Evil Dead franchise, Evil Dead Rise, has finally begun in New Zealand.

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‘That Was New Zealand’ Premiere Screening

by Hugh Macdonald Film — 15.6.2021

The iconic and classic film ‘This is New Zealand’ is about to be re-released to cinemas for the first time since 1972.

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New Zealand Film Commission Appoints David Strong as CEO

by Patrick Frater — 13.6.2021

The New Zealand Film Commission has appointed David Strong as its new CEO. He replaces Annabelle Sheehan, who stepped down from the role in May after three and a half years in the role.

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How James Cameron And Avatar’s Crew Celebrated 1 Year Since Filming Wrapped On Sequels

by Jamil David — 29.5.2021

The Avatar sequels have been in development for over a decade now, and James Cameron has been hard at work dealing with the pressures of making a sequel to the biggest blockbuster in movie history.

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Spy: Stars fly in for NZ’s new TV production boom

by Ricardo Simich — 30.5.2021

A number of global TV series shooting in New Zealand are getting the green light for second and third seasons.

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A different type of veteran: New Zealand film maker John Irwin on the ANZAC trail in Greece

by Dr Martyn Brown — 27.5.2021

In 1989, New Zealand filmmaker John Irwin travelled to Athens and Crete to visit former Greek classmates from the London International Film School. The visit ‘to see a couple of these mates’ changed his life.

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First New Zealand movie with Down syndrome actor in lead role premieres in Wellington

by Jacob Johnson — 27.5.2021

The first New Zealand movie with a Down syndrome actor in a lead role has premiered in Wellington.

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Whanganui Confluence cinema and film company bringing together people and documentaries

by Georgie Ormond — 23.5.2021

Melita Farley and Kevin Double are the husband-and-wife team behind Confluence - a cinema, shared office, film-company social enterprise opposite the Davis Theatre in Whanganui.

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The Justice of Bunny King trailer: First look at Thomasin McKenzie’s next film

by Kate Rodger — 22.5.2021

The first trailer for Kiwi actor Thomasin McKenzie's latest film The Justice of Bunny King has just been released.

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Annabelle Sheehan on film, cancer and the coronavirus

by Andre Chumko — 29.5.2021

New Zealand Film Commission chief executive Annabelle Sheehan has stepped away from the role, after three and a half years of leading the agency.

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Christchurch to host Producer Matt Noonan’s latest feature film

by ChristchurchNZ — 13.5.2021

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s new motorways could double as American roads in a production being filmed in the city in June.

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New TV series showcases ancient Pacific tales in the modern day

by Sela Jane Hopgood — 14.5.2021

A new Pacific-themed drama and horror television series has been created for New Zealand.

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Quirky comedy This Town sells North American Rights to streamer Topic

by New Zealand Film Commission — 10.5.2021

Topic, the streaming service from First Look Media, announced today that they have acquired North American rights to the New Zealand quirky comedy This Town for a May 20th streaming release as well as a Day & Date option to order the film via Vimeo On Demand.

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Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga -The New Zealand Film Commission and Toi Pōneke Art Centre launch The Write Room

by The Big Idea — 12.5.2021

Write Room is a Wellington-based screenwriter residency programme held in partnership with Toi Pōneke Art Centre and Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga -The New Zealand Film Commission.

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Six New Zealand Filmmakers chosen for auspicious Black List project

by New Zealand Film Commission — 12.5.2021

Six New Zealand screenwriters have had their scripts selected as part of the Black List New Zealand Project (BLNZP), a partnership between internationally acclaimed the Black List and the New Zealand Film Commission.

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International platform for five stories from Aotearoa

by New Zealand Film Commission — 7.5.2021

Five successful screen projects have been selected in the first round of the $50 million Te Puna Kairangi Premium Productions for International Audiences Fund.

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Amazon buys MGM for $NZ11.6b

by Joseph Pisani — 27.5.2021

Online shopping giant Amazon is buying MGM, the movie and TV studio behind James Bond, Legally Blonde and The Voice, with the hopes of filling its video streaming service with more stuff to watch.

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New development in Kim Dotcom extradition case

by RNZ — 5.5.2021

Kim Dotcom has lost his bid to delay his hearing in the Court of Appeal tomorrow on the basis the judges were the same ones that made the original decision.

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David Zaslav to Lead Combined WarnerMedia-Discovery as Landmark Deal Is Confirmed

by Brian Steinberg — 17.5.2021

David Zaslav was officially named Monday to lead a new combination of WarnerMedia and Discovery, propelling him to the top ranks of operators in the industry and offering just the latest example of consolidation among media conglomerates as the rise of video streaming continues to upend the entire sector.

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A blockbuster media deal could tie Three up with CNN and HBO

by Duncan Greive — 18.5.2021

News broke yesterday of a proposed mega-merger that would collect massive global brands like HBO, CNN, Discovery, Warner Brothers and more in a media behemoth which would become one of the most diversified screen media companies in the world.

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Creative industries need support to prevent talent moving overseas, experts say

by Ryan Anderson — 14.5.2021

New Zealand could lose talented creative industries workers to other countries if business don’t get greater support from central and local government, experts warn.

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Christchurch Welcomes An International Feature Film

by ChristchruchNZ — 13.5.2021

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s new motorways could double as American roads in a production being filmed in the city in June.

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The role of artist in New Zealand ‘needs funding and recognition’

by Dame Gaylene Preston — 13.5.2021

To be an artist, means dedication. It’s not a “fun” thing. It involves serious play, but the artist has no choice. It’s a brain stem thing. A human thing. It gives back to us all in unquantifiable ways. Yet why do we think that an artist starving in a garret is romantic?

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Spy: Revealed — Hollywood star’s NZ movie role

by Ricardo Simich — 16.5.2021

A movie that once had Ewan McGregor's name attached to it is now featuring fellow Hollywood star John Cho and being made in New Zealand.

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Six Screenwriters Selected For Inaugural Black List New Zealand Project

by Matt Grobar — 12.5.2021

Six New Zealand screenwriters have been chosen to participate in the inaugural Black List New Zealand Project.

News

Blocking Offshore Pirate Content Sites: The Philippines is Joining a Growing International Consensus

by Hugh Stephens — 10.5.2021

In the ongoing struggle against content piracy, a global scourge that undermines and competes unfairly with legitimate content producers and distributors, blocking offshore web and streaming sites that distribute pirated content has proven to be an effective tool in many countries.

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Paramount+ Sets Launch Plans for Australia, New Zealand

by Patrick Brzeski — 6.5.2021

The Viacom CBS service will launch down under for A$8.99 per month, which is cheaper than Netflix, Disney+ and local competitors Stan and Foxtel Now.

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Hollywood star’s epic praise of NZ after moving down under

by Star News — 22.4.2021

Gordon-Levitt said it is surreal to think the rest of the world is getting sick, while he's able to freely go to work without even having to wear a mask.

News

Netflix Wins Seven Oscars, Biggest Haul Among All Studios This Year

by Todd Spangler — 25.4.2021

Netflix had a big night at the Oscars, bringing home a total of seven total trophies

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Cinema reopening dates around the world: latest updates

by Ben Dalton — 27.4.2021

As cinemas deal with the third wave of closures in 2021, Screen charts the situation in markets across the globe.

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Dr Ruth Harley Reappointed As Chair Of NZ On Air

by Ministry for Culture and Heritage — 21.4.2021

Dr Ruth Harley has been reappointed as the Chair of NZ On Air Irirangi Te Motu (NZ On Air), for a three-year term from 1 May 2021. Dr Harley has a long international career in the screen industry.

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On The Demonisation Of Film And TV Subsidies

by Gordon Campbell — 27.4.2021

Yesterday’s big winner at the Oscars was Chinese-American director Chloe Zhao and her film Nomadland….

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New film office fighting to turn home of Hobbiton into industry powerhouse

by Mike Mather — 27.4.2021

It’s home to some of the most iconic scenes from the best-known films ever made in New Zealand but there’s much more potential for movie-making in Waikato than just The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

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2021 MPA APSA Academy Film Fund launch

by Asia Pacific Screen Awards — 27.4.2021

The 12th round of the film fund dedicated to developing the diverse stories of Asia Pacific, the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund opened today.

News

He Ara Funding Announced

by NZ Film Commission

He Ara (Pathway) funding supports Māori and/or Pacific Island filmmakers to create a diverse range of quality New Zealand content using their own way of working.

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Celebrating World IP Day 2021

by Don Groves — 26.4.2021

Every April 26, The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) – a global forum for IP information and cooperation – celebrates World Intellectual Property Day to highlight the role that intellectual property (IP) rights play in encouraging innovation and creativity.

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Netflix & Sony Ink Deal for Movie Streaming

by Kristin Brzoznowski — 9.4.2021

Netflix and Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) have closed an exclusive first-pay-window licensing deal in the U.S. for theatrically released feature films, starting with Sony’s 2022 movie slate.

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Government to give Amazon over $100 million boost for Lord of the Rings filming

by RNZ — 16.4.2021

A deal to boost the local economy has been struck between the government and the global giant Amazon.

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Otago hopes to reap benefits from Amazon’s Lord of the Rings filming: ‘You can’t not invest’

by RNZ — 17.4.2021

The mayor of Central Otago says he hopes his region will see some of the benefits of an Amazon Lord of the Rings series that has begun filming in New Zealand.

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Screen industry secures landmark project

by Hon Stuart Nash — 16.4.2021

Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash says a landmark deal has been agreed with Amazon for The Lord of the Rings TV series, currently being filmed in New Zealand.

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NZ Film Commission Appoints Key Development and Production Personnel

by Philsandberg — 9.4.2021

Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga/The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) has announced appointments to four roles in the Development and Production team headed by Leanne Saunders.

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Oscars 2021: How to watch every best picture nominated movie in New Zealand

by Lydia Burgham — 23.4.2021

It's been a strange year for award season. The pandemic has seen major studios go straight to streaming with several major releases. But nothing can fully dampen the glitz and glamour of Hollywood stardom.

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The Queen as you’ve never seen her before: Candid 1953 home movie shot in New Zealand surfaces

by NZ Herald — 8.4.2021

Never-before seen footage from 1953 showing a young Queen Elizabeth II enjoying downtime with New Zealand Governor-General at the time, Sir Willoughby Norrie, and his family, has surfaced.

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Release date announced for Chinese drama ‘Sister’ in Australia, New Zealand

by Xinhua — 12.4.2021

Hit drama "Sister," which helped drive China's box office revenue during the Tomb-sweeping Day holiday to a record high of 821 million yuan (125 million U.S. dollars), is set for release in Australia and New Zealand on April 22.

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Public media plan moves forward behind closed doors

by Colin Peacock — 4.4.2021

The government appointed experts this week to oversee a business case which could be a blueprint for a new public media entity to replace TVNZ and RNZ - but the public won't see it before the government decides the issue later this year.

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Experts appointed to oversee new public media plan

by Colin Peacock — 31.3.2021

The government has appointed eight people to oversee a business case for a new public media entity to replace state owned TVNZ and RNZ.

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Netflix’s reign as king of the streaming wars is under threat, with Disney projected to take its crown in 3 years

by Ben Gilbert — 15.3.2021

Netflix, the long reigning king of streaming, is set to finally be dethroned, with Disney expected to become the new leader by 2024 at the latest, according to a new report.

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Doctor Who director Wayne Yip signs on as co-director of Lord of the Rings

by Stuff, NZ — 25.3.2021

UK director Wayne Yip is joining the New Zealand-based production of Amazon’s Lord of the Rings series.

News

Palmerston North boy returns home with gender diverse film

by Rachel Moore — 25.3.2021

Gender diverse people in Palmerston North will finally have the opportunity to see their story on the big screen.

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New Zealand’s screen sector desperate for more crews, training

by Andre Chumko — 30.3.2021

Many sectors have suffered during the year of Covid-19, but Aotearoa’s screen industry has been thriving. That hasn’t come without its own challenges – although they are challenges that many in the arts sector would love to have.

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Managed isolation and quarantine fees to increase for temporary entry visa holders

by RNZ — 2.3.2021

Temporary entry visa class holders coming into New Zealand's managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) facilities will have to pay more from 25 March.

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Film company’s plans to build studio near Wanaka may be fast-tracked

by RNZ — 4.3.2021

Silverlight Studios Limited applied to Ministry for the Environment to build the facilities including a film school and theatre off The Wanaka Luggate Highway.

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Cousins Hits $1 Million Dollar Box Office

by The New Zealand Film Commission — 25.3.2021

Ainsley Gardiner and Briar Grace-Smith’s debut feature Cousins, has taken over $1M dollars at the New Zealand box office and, after three weeks in release at New Zealand cinemas, continues to play strongly around the country remaining on 124 screens from Keri Keri to Stewart Island.

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Hipkins ‘optimistic’ travel bubble with Australia could be running next month

by RNZ — 24.3.2021

The government will reveal the start date for a trans-Tasman travel bubble on 6 April. Yesterday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said more time was needed to nail down the final details.

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DanishBits: Authorities Extradite ‘Pirate Mastermind’ From Morocco

by Andy Maxwell — 23.3.2021

After being arrested and jailed in Morocco last October, the alleged "mastermind" behind private torrent tracker DanishBits has now been extradited to Denmark.

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Black Widow headed to Disney+ as studio shakes up schedule

by Benjamin Lee — 23.3.2021

Disney has announced that Black Widow and Cruella will both be debuting on its streaming service Disney+ at the same time as in cinemas.

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New Zealand Film Festival Shifts Dates to Avoid Cannes Clash

by Patrick Frater — 22.3.2021

The New Zealand International Film Festival, normally held in mid-year, will shift to new dates later in 2021.

News

Annabelle Sheehan to depart the NZFC

by Sean Slatter — 18.3.2021

New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) CEO Annabelle Sheehan is set to depart her role and return to Australia after three years at the helm of the organisation.

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Planning well under way for the South Island’s first new film studio

by Tina Law — 15.3.2021

Plans to bring Hollywood to Christchurch have moved a step closer.

News

Filming for Kid Cudi, Jenna Ortega movie X under way in Whanganui

by Ethan Griffiths — 23.2.2021

A group of Hollywood stars are in New Zealand filming a new movie, it has been revealed, with a portion of the filming taking place in Whanganui.

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How easy (or not) is it for international cast and crew to shoot in Australia and New Zealand in 2021?

by Screen Daily — 18.2.2021

Film and TV production has been back on track for months in Australia and New Zealand and the two southern hemisphere countries have attracted various footloose shoots that might otherwise have shot in locked-down Europe or North America.

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Hollywood Heads Down Under: How Australia & New Zealand’s Screen Sectors Are Thriving Despite The Pandemic

by Deadline — 16.2.2021

As Hollywood continues to grapple with the far-reaching and damaging effects of Covid-19, on the other side of the world Australia and New Zealand are bucking the downward trend.

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Wellington To Host World Premiere Of Anthology Film ‘Encounters’

by SCOOP — February 9, 2021

Wellington-shot anthology film to premiere at Embassy Theatre and OnDemand on 3 March 2021.

News

NZ author Meg Mason just landed a huge US film deal

by The Spinoff — February 9, 2021

Ockhams-longlisted novel Sorrow and Bliss is set to be a film and we at The Spinoff Review of Books could not be more excited.

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Northland cinema struggling with falling numbers wants to avoid closing

by NZ Herald — February 11, 2021

The only theatre in Kaipara could close unless more people start going to the cinema.

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The New Zealand town subbing in as Texas in a mystery American production

by Stuff — February 11, 2021

It's more known for its fizz than its cowboys, but Foxton is passing for Texas in a mystery film production.

News

Largest indigenous film festival in the Southern Hemisphere announces programme

by NZ Herald — February 8, 2021

The largest indigenous film festival in the Southern Hemisphere, the Māoriland Film Festival held in Ōtaki, launched its programme on Waitangi Day.

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Netflix romance calls on local talent for Dunedin film shoot

by Stuff — February 4, 2021

A Netflix film set to shoot in Dunedin has created over 150 jobs for Kiwi actors and crew – and roles for 1000 extras – while taking up only a few MIQ spots.

News

Shadow in the Cloud: Kiwi-shot action-horror a stunningly executed crowdpleaser

by Stuff — February 3, 2021

Third-time really is the charm for Chinese-New Zealand director Roseanne Liang. Now, she’s left a calling card for Hollywood with one of the most exciting and inventive action flicks of the past few years.

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7 Films to Experience the Best of New Zealand

by Outlook Traveller — February 2, 2021

If you cannot take a flight, you can definitely take our suggestions and experience New Zealand from the comfort of your home.

News

Covid-19 was cinema’s horror-show, but NZ’s Vista Group sees more feel-good 2021

by Stuff — February 2, 2021

After the Covid-19 jabs are given and the coronavirus lockdowns are lifted overseas, New Zealand cinema group Vista is hoping people will head back to the movies.

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How Sundance select horror-thriller Coming Home in the Dark subverts NZ’s ‘happy Hobbits’ image

by TVNZ — February 1, 2021

Based on a 1995 short story of the same name by Owen Marshall, the horror thriller follows a school teacher who is forced to confront his past after he and his family are taken on a road trip by a pair of ominous figures. The film also stars Daniel Gillies, Erik Thomson, Miriama McDowell and Matthias Luafutu.

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Ninety years of cinema, including Spike Lee, in Film Society’s 75th programme

by Wellington.Scoop — January 25, 2021

The Wellington Film Society heads into its 75th year of screening with Spike Lee’s 1989 masterpiece Do the Right Thing, set to ignite the giant Embassy Theatre screen during American Black History month.

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Death of Bill Sheat, a major influence on our cultural life

by Wellington.Scoop — January 20, 2021

William (Bill) Sheat, who died in Lower Hutt this week, completed more than seven decades as an innovative leader in the creative arts, not only in Wellington but also throughout New Zealand.

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New Zealand’s Silky Otter Cinemas Chooses POSitive Cinema

by DCinema Today — January 22, 2021

POSitive Cinema enters a new territory through a multi-year agreement with New Zealand's Silky Otter Cinemas circuit. The Silky Otter Cinema concept is determined to change the way you enjoy movies.

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RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under announced, production under way in New Zealand

by NZ Herald — January 19, 2021

Rumours swirled when it was first revealed RuPaul touched down in New Zealand, and now TVNZ has confirmed exciting news for Drag Race fans.

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Online safety laws lagging by a decade

by Newsroom — January 19, 2021

The laws that are supposed to be keeping Kiwis safe online are lagging by a decade. Internal Affairs' director of digital safety talks about what needs to change.

News

The Brand-new Cinema Experience To Be Unveiled In The Eagerly Anticipated Ormiston Town Centre

by SCOOP — January 18, 2021

One of the biggest New Zealand cinema exhibitors HOYTS, has released official renders of what Aucklanders can expect inside the brand-new HOYTS Ormiston, which is set to open this March.

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The Black List Teams With New Zealand Film Commission For Fund And Script Development Workshop

by Deadline — January 18, 2021

EXCLUSIVE: The Black List is partnering with the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) for the Black List New Zealand Project (BLNZP).

News

The move that could close cinemas permanently

by NZ Herald — January 17, 2021

Some epic films are set for release this year – think The Matrix 4, Godzilla vs. Kong and sci-fi thriller Dune – and you don't even have to leave your house to see them. But that could be a move that kills cinemas.

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Filming for Muru, based on Tuhoe police raids, underway in West Auckland

by Stuff — January 15, 2021

A remote Auckland community has become a film set as the shooting of a New Zealand film gets underway.

News

Kiwi Screen Sector, Leads The World For Managing COVID-19

by SCOOP — January 15, 2021

The New Zealand screen sector is being hailed for its innovative approach to managing COVID-19.

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How ‘What We Do In the Shadows’ Reshapes the “Man Alone” with Vampire Cinema

by The Film Magazine — January 13, 2021

In New Zealand cinema, the “man alone” represents humanity’s dominance over nature. Over the centuries, that dominance comes in the form of expanding urbanization, reducing societal identification with the ethos of a colonial past. What We Do in the Shadows reshapes the “man alone” for 21st century Wellington using vampire cinema and its tradition of intertextuality.

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Plan a New Zealand vacation: Visit these iconic filming locations

by Film Daily — January 14, 2021

Have you ever fantasized about stepping into the movies you cherish, playing a part in the epic tales? Movies may throw you into mystical lands with out-of-this-world stories, but every scene was filmed somewhere on earth.

News

Unique New Zealand Horror Film, THE TURN OF THE SCREW, To Be Released In Cinemas

by SCOOP — January 14, 2021

The New Zealand gothic horror THE TURN OF THE SCREW gets its highly anticipated nationwide cinematic release on 21 January.

News

Renaissance woman: Meet New Zealand filmmaker Charlotte Larsen

by Film Daily — January 12, 2021

Charlotte Larsen is poised to become a household name. The New Zealand native has found success as a producer and actress on popular films like Gloria (2014) and Great Expectations (2012).

News

New Zealand’s Rialto teams up with Bruce Tuchman to launch global streamer

by Digital TV Europe — January 12, 2021

Former Sundance Channel Global president Bruce Tuchman has linked up with New Zealand’s Rialto Channel to launch a new global streaming and linear service, which has already struck its first deal.

News

Making Sausage: How the CASE Act Finally Became Law

by Hugh Stephens — January 4, 2021

To kick-off 2021, which we all hope will be a better year than the last annus horribilis, let’s look back at one of the closing chapters of 2020, the last minute passage in the US of the COVID-19 relief package and government funding bill which was finally signed into law by Donald Trump on December 27, 2020.

News

NZ launches $36m production fund

by C21 Media — January 8, 2021

The New Zealand government has launched a screen sector recovery package that includes a new fund to support the production of local stories with international appeal.

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Kiwi actress Thomasin McKenzie features in Vogue’s Hollywood 2021 watchlist

by NZ Herald — January 5, 2021

Talented New Zealand actress Thomasin McKenzie is on Vogue's list of rising stars to watch in 2021.

News

Where Was Shadow in the Cloud Filmed?

by TheCinemaholic — December 31, 2020

‘Shadow in the Cloud’, directed by Roseanne Liang, is about a World War II pilot Maude Garrett (Chloë Grace Moretz), taking on a mission involving a top-secret package.

News

‘Wonder Woman 1984’ is a Massive Hit on Pirate Sites After Early HBO Premiere

by Torrent Freak — December 30, 2020

On Saturday, nearly 10% of all pirate downloads on torrent sites related to Wonder Woman, something we haven't seen before. It's a potential game-changer.

News

Watch: 15-year-old Queenstown boy wins film award after secret entry

by NZ Herald — December 30, 2020

When a letter was handed to a Wakatipu High schooler in the pouring rain at Branches Camp he had no idea what it was about.

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More than the Rings: A field guide to NZ’s famous movie locations

by NZ Herald — December 26, 2020

Hobbits may be very small but they have a super-sized reputation when it comes to New Zealand's famous movie locations. Peter Jackson filmed six movies set on Middle Earth here, which means most of the country has some connection to the Lord of the Rings.

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Government-funded Covid insurance considered for 12 upcoming films

by Stuff — December 24, 2020

The 12 productions would have “reasonably [been] expected” to get pandemic cover before it became unavailable on the private insurance market earlier this year, ministry deputy chief executive Anna Butler said.

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Peter Jackson’s Special-Effects Firm Looks to Become a Content Producer

by The Wall Street Journal — December 17, 2020

At a time when much of Hollywood is reeling from Covid-19, Weta Digital, the visual-effects company behind “Avatar” and “Avengers: Endgame,” is looking to pull a growth story out of its magic hat.

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What’s Coming To Disney+ In January (Australia/New Zealand)

by Whatsondisneyplus — December 16, 2020

January will see Disney+ add a number of new Disney+ Originals including Marvel Studios first series, “WandaVision”, plus other new shows including “Marvel Studios: Legends” and “Pixar Popcorn”. Plus there will be new additions to the Disney+ library in New Zealand and Australia.

News

What is an Asian-New Zealand film?

by Asia Media Center — December 16, 2020

A decade ago, Dr Arezou Zalipour started investigating Asian New Zealanders’ representation on the screen and their film practices. She theorised the concept of ‘Asian-New Zealand film’ by probing the changes and effects the Asian diaspora has had on New Zealand screen culture.

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$21 million in cryptocurrency seized from Hamilton movie pirate

by Stuff — December 11, 2020

A Hamilton man has had more than $21 million in cryptocurrency seized by police after admitting his role in downloading and selling pirated movies.

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How New Zealand’s film industry boomed during the pandemic

by BBC — December 12, 2020

It might be found at the bottom of the globe, but New Zealand has been at the top of the movie industry in 2020.

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New AFCI Topper Kevin Jennings Leads Org With More Support and Solutions

by Variety — December 10, 2020

With COVID still forcing lockdowns in countries around the world, the role of the Assn. of Film Commissioners Intl. has never been more important to the production community. The professional organization continues to attract more members, recently adding Film Coop, the Cooperstown, Oneonta and Otsego Film Partnership, Canada’s London Economic Development Corp. and the United Arab Emirates’ Shams Film Commission.

News

Government grants border exemption for nearly 90 Netflix film crew members

by Stuff — December 10, 2020

The government has given 88 members of an international film crew exemption to travel to New Zealand to shoot the Netflix show Cowboy Bebop.

News

Screen sector gets $50 million boost to tell New Zealand’s stories globally

by Beehive — December 9, 2020

The Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon Carmel Sepuloni today launched the Premium Productions for International Audiences Fund, making $50 million available in a unique opportunity for the screen sector to tell New Zealand’s stories to a global audience.

News

Stars Power Productions in New Zealand, Australia as Production Back in Business

by Variety — December 9, 2020

When local newspapers complain about traffic jams caused by Nicole Kidman filming (in New South Wales’ picturesque Byron Bay) and Natalie Portman stopping Sydney traffic by wearing revealing shorts, there is a sense that normality has returned to everyday life in Australia. The film industry is back in production high gear.

News

The Crown actor and Packed to the Rafters icon to film new show in Queenstown

by Stuff — December 9, 2020

Edwards, who plays the Queen’s private secretary Martin Charteris in the Netflix drama, is to join Packed to the Rafters’ icon Rebecca Gibney for a new six part romantic comedy which will be filmed in Queenstown.

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Costumes, sets and props from The Luminaries TV show donated to Hokitika Museum

by Stuff — December 7, 2020

Costumes, sets and props from The Luminaries television show have been donated to a West Coast museum.

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Taxpayer grants to Lord of the Rings represent ‘significant fiscal risk’ to Government finances

by Stuff — December 7, 2020

Treasury officials considered bending Government budget rules to accommodate the enormous cost of subsidising the new Lord of the Rings TV show.

News

Spy: Netflix turns Mission Bay into a sweet post-apocalyptic world

by Stuff — December 6, 2020

Have you spotted any animal/human hybrids in Auckland's eastern suburbs this week? The latest Netflix series shooting in New Zealand closed down Atkin Ave, Mission Bay, over the past few days.

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A New Zealand treasure – Sam Neill on why he is refusing to die

by Stuff.co.nz — December 6, 2020

Yes, he’s got Hollywood A-lister celebrity friends – but Sam Neill is just as at home mixing with donkeys and swans, and, he tells Alison Mau, got through quarantine with chocolate and medicinal cannabis.

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Bill’s Legacy: Eight great NZ Film Festival movies (and where you can watch them)

by Stuff.co.nz — December 6, 2020

Although my love of movies was born in the high concept, family-friendly blockbuster days of the 1980s, one man helped broaden my horizons to embrace the many delights cinema from around the globe had to offer.

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How NZ Kept Cameras Rolling

by ArtsHub — December 4, 2020

https://www.artshub.com.au/news-article/features/covid-19-screen/the-big-idea/how-nz-kept-cameras-rolling-261570

News

Picture Tree International Reveals Deals for Multiple Titles on Slate (EXCLUSIVE)

by Variety — December 3, 2020

Berlin-based Picture Tree International, which is participating in this week’s Ventana Sur, has announced a swathe of deals on its sales slate, including a pact with HBO for U.S. rights on Mexican comedy “Go Youth,” which premiered locally at Morelia Film Festival recently.

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Film-maker James Cameron’s businesses takes $150,000 in wage subsidies

by Stuff.co.nz — December 2, 2020

Hollywood blockbuster-maker James Cameron has taken more than $150,000 in wage subsidies, with one of his businesses showing no signs of opening its doors again.

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Wellington UNESCO City of Film launches with focus on promoting diverse voices

by Stuff.co.nz — November 30, 2020

Youth, Māori, Pasifika and other diverse groups will soon have better access to opportunities in the film industry following the launch of Wellington UNESCO City of Film’s strategy today.

News

Sam Neill: ‘A little optimism at the end of a rather dark tunnel’

by RNZ — November 29, 2020

Sam Neill has had a busy year. He opened 2020 playing Phil O'Brien as a guest star on Matinee Idle, and after that, he shot off to the UK to star in the blockbuster Jurassic World.

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Voices of Auckland: Mark Taylor on how Auckland will continue to play a starring role

by Stuff.co.nz — November 27, 2020

Mark Taylor is confident Auckland’s post-production talent and technical capability will continue to play a starring role on screens around the world.

News

Ara Student Directed Film To Feature On SkyTV

by Scoop.co.nz — November 26, 2020

In her final year, Motion Design student Kirsty Cameron has reached a couple of significant milestones in directing and producing her first film which will soon be featured on New Zealand television.

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Lord of the Rings Amazon TV Series: Cast, Release Date and Everything to Know

by Den of Geek — November 25, 2020

Amazon’s purportedly billion-dollar-budgeted Lord of the Rings TV series will take place LONG before the events of Peter Jackson’s movies. Setting the tone for this small screen return to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, the first two episodes will be directed by J.A. Bayona, who helmed Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.

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‘Well that sold out fast’: Joseph Gordon-Levitt springs surprise on Wellington’s Roxy Cinema

by Stuff.co.nz — November 22, 2020

Hollywood superstar Joseph Gordon-Levitt sprung a surprise visit to a Wellington cinema, then invited the locals along.

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Spy: Tim Roth among Hollywood stars descending on Auckland

by NZ Herald — November 21, 2020

International movie stars John Cho and Tim Roth are filming separate projects in Auckland as the local movie industry gets back on its feet.

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Streamliner Productions becomes first disguise xR Partner in New Zealand

by Live Design — November 19, 2020

disguise welcomes Streamliner Productions in New Zealand to its worldwide partner network. Streamliner are now a disguise xR Creative & Rental Partner, and will enable new levels of creativity for virtual productions in a country that has been described as a thriving mecca for the global film industry.

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Taika Waititi, Working Title TV’s ‘The Luminaries’ & Himesh Patel Among New Zealand Television Awards Winners

by Deadline — November 18, 2020

Winners for the 2020 New Zealand Television Awards were announced today, with the event becoming of the few physical screen award ceremonies to be held during the pandemic.

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‘We need cinemas to survive’ – top NZ movie producer

by RNZ — November 15, 2020

New Zealand audiences have embraced the chance for the shared space and experience that cinemas provide in a Covid-hit year, the producer of the hit movie Savage says.

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Julia Ormond stars in new movie Reunion filmed in New Zealand

by Newshub — 14.11.2020

Ormond is now a long way from the rolling hills of Montana, she's headlining a creepy horror film, shot in New Zealand, called Reunion.

News

Vale Bill Gosden

by Scoop.co.nz — November 9, 2020

Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is mourning the loss of an industry stalwart, long-time New Zealand International Film Festival director, Bill Gosden, and pleased to confirm on behalf of his whānau that Bill’s memorial service will be held at the Public Trust Hall, 131–135 Lambton Quay, Wellington, on Monday 16 November, at 2.00pm.

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Screen industry in for a post-Covid shake-up, and the regions are welcome

by Stuff.co.nz — November 5, 2020

New Zealand has the chance to be a leader in the morphing film industry, says screenwriter Casey Zilbert, centre.

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International Premiere For This Town At Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival

by Scoop.co.nz — November 4, 2020

This Town will have its international premiere at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, one of Northern Europe’s largest film festivals. The film will screen In Competition in the ‘Rebels with a Cause’ section which features films from around the world that push the boundaries of cinematic art in their experimental form or rebellious message.

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The Mandalorian: Kiwi cinemato- grapher makes his mark in a galaxy far, far away

by Stuff — October 29, 2020

Winning an Emmy for his work on The Mandalorian was not something Baz Idoine ever imagined when he began his career operating a photocopier at Television New Zealand.

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Joseph Gordon-Levitt moves new TV production to New Zealand to escape Covid-19 pandemic in the US

by Stuff — October 24, 2020

Joseph Gordon-Levitt is reportedly in Wellington, after leaving Los Angeles in the US with his family to escape the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

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Adaptive Antipiracy Tools: An Update on Dynamic and Live Blocking Injunctions

by ITIF — October 22, 2020

Lest it never be said that criminals cannot be innovative. Case in point digital piracy, which evolves with changing technology, consumer preferences, and business models. But thankfully some countries are innovating as well, adapting their legal tools to keep up with ever adapting digital pirates. Unfortunately, others, including the United States, have been slower to do so, and have especially failed to block access to offshore online services that engage in the mass distribution of pirated content. This is problematic because effectively policing online piracy will be critical to protecting the interests of creators in the digital economy, as the quality and availability of unauthorized streams and other piracy services have markedly improved in recent years.

News

Kiwi Short Film Musical Impossible Sets Sights On Worldwide Release

by Scoop.co.nz — October 28, 2020

The New Zealand Film Commission funded short film musical Impossible is gearing up for the international festival circuit in 2021, with the production team’s larger goal being a feature-length version.

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Box Office: New Zealand comedy Baby Done arrives in hope

by ArtsHub — October 26, 2020

Comedy Baby Done would do ace business in a normal year, but is beaten handily by a grim Polish film about a fake priest which fanatics claim is blasphemous.

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New Zealand’s booming film and TV industry in a ‘golden era’ thanks to Covid safe haven

by Stuff.co.nz — October 24, 2020

In special effects studios in Miramar and on sets in Lower Hutt, behind shipping container shields in Auckland and in the surrounds of Queenstown, screen workers are busy filming or finishing a slew of new movies and dramas.

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Global cinema reopenings a healthy sign for Vista Group

by Stuff.co.nz — October 22, 2020

The world's struggling movie industry threw listed film solutions company Vista Group for a loop, but the company is now banking on cinema attendance returning to normal next year.

News

The Digital-Piracy Dilemma

by Harvard Business Review — October 19, 2020

In the world of film, one of the most important things copyright owners can do is market their content online to increase awareness and revenue. At the same time, they have to protect their content from internet piracy, which chips away at sales.

News

UK Sci-Fi-Drama ‘Infinitum’ With Ian McKellen Gets UK & Aus/NZ Deal

by Deadline — October 16, 2020

UK sci-fi-drama film Infinitum: Subject Unknown has been picked up by Blue Finch Films for distribution in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

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Disused highway near Nelson the perfect location for apocalyptic film

by Stuff.co.nz — October 16, 2020

Bollywood in the hills behind Nelson and an apocalyptic fight for survival on the Whangamoa Saddle – a burgeoning low-budget filmmaking collective is creating interesting plot twists in the top of the south.

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Queenstown Lord of the Rings location opens to public in Kelvin Heights

by NZ Herald — October 16, 2020

Some of New Zealand's most spectacular and film-famous backdrops will open again to the public, after 11 years.

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The Japanese Film Festival Returns With Free Virtual Edition This December

by Scoop.co.nz — October 15, 2020

The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) returns for its 24th year from 4 December to 13 December, with JFF Plus: Online Festival, a free streaming event available to audiences across Australia and New Zealand.

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Hollywood border exemptions lead to ramp-up of NZ film industry

by NZ Herald — October 6, 2020

The Film Commission says border exemptions for Hollywood actors and crew have kickstarted what could be a record year for the New Zealand screen industry. More than 200 overseas cast and film workers were allowed into New Zealand in the three months to July.

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Amazon’s ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Resumes Production In New Zealand, Netflix’s ‘Cowboy Bebop’ Next

by Deadline — September 28, 2020

Filming has just resumed in New Zealand on Amazon’s sprawling The Lord Of The Rings TV series, an adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels, I have learned. Production on Netflix’s Cowboy Bebop is slated to restart on Wednesday, Sept. 30, in the island country where Netflix’s Sweet Tooth has been shooting since Sept. 14, sources said. The three shows were among a handful of Hollywood TV series and movies that were granted border exemptions by the New Zealand government in July to film in the country.

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Avatar 2 filming completed, its delay helped making of Avatar 3, says James Cameron

by Devdiscourse — September 26, 2020

In our previous posts on Avatar 2, we notified you that the James Cameron went back with the cast and crew to New Zealand. This happened after New Zealand got triumph over the battle against coronavirus pandemic and withdrawn the lockdown.

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The Mysterious Case of the Missing Movies: What happened to these lost Kiwi films?

by Stuff — September 23, 2020

New Zealand’s audiovisual archive Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision has a mystery on its hands: What became of three films by Kiwi filmmaker Robert Steele?Australian ex-pat Steele, who died in 1975, is well-known for making educational and commercial films in the mid-20th century, with titles like What Health Stamps Do and Here is New Zealand.

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Shudder Hits 1M Subscribers As Key Part Of AMC Networks’ Targeted Streaming Approach

by Deadline — September 22, 2020

Shudder, the streaming service focused on horror, thrillers and the supernatural, said Tuesday it has passed the 1 million subscriber mark.

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Kiwi cinematographer Baz Idoine wins early Emmy award for The Mandalorian

by Stuff — September 20, 2020

Kiwi cinematographer Barry “Baz” Idoine has won an Emmy for his work on live-action Star Wars series The Mandalorian.

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Unions announce pandemic agreement with studios to resume film and TV production

by Daily News — September 22, 2020

Several of Hollywood’s biggest unions announced an agreement with major studios over new pandemic safety protocols that will allow for the resumption of TV and film production six months after the coronavirus outbreak put the entertainment industry on indefinite pause.

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Cutting-edge design technology education in Wellington, New Zealand

by Study International — September 22, 2020

In the windy, hilly, picturesque capital city of Wellington, students from all corners of the world are delving deep into the intricacies of Design Technology at Wellington ICT Graduate School. They’re not just learning valuable practical skills, they’re also immersing themselves in a unique experience that gives them access to on campus industry experts. They are learning from the best and forging a network of strong professional connections in a vibrant and technologically advanced setting.

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Pandemic film-making in NZ

by Newsroom — September 14, 2020

Sharon Brettkelly talks to the producer of Avatar, Jon Landau, about making a blockbuster in New Zealand during a pandemic. The glamour film industry has attracted a lot of flak for getting special treatment to let overseas crew across our border when others have been shut out.

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Jane Campion Netflix film in line for $6m NZ government rebate

by Stuff — September 10, 2020

It is an overseas-produced film set in the United States and headlined by Hollywood stars but the $6 million Government rebate it is poised to get is Kiwi-as. Jane Campion's The Power of the Dog is set to claim the maximum-possible government rebate, meaning it is in line to get back 40 cents for every dollar the production spends here, up to a maximum $6m rebate.

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450 Wellingtonians worked on Disney’s $US200m ‘Mulan’

by Wellington Scoop — September 3, 2020

The $US200m Disney feature film Mulan, which begins its worldwide release on Friday night, had substantial participation from the Wellington creative community.

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On Location: How ‘Mulan’ Combines the Dramatic Landscapes of China and New Zealand

by CNA Traveler — September 4, 2020

You may be watching Disney's live-action remake of Mulan for the impressive martial arts scenes, the orchestra rendition of "Reflection," or a taste of childhood nostalgia. But we spent most of the movie distracted by the sweeping sets and filming locations. From the nearly 700-foot-tall sand dunes of the Taklamakan Desert to the rainbow mountains of Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, the movie hits many of China's geographical highlights.

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Weta Digital creating a new cloud-based global workflow

by Wellington.Scoop — September 3, 2020

News from Amazon Web Services Amazon Web Services, Inc, an Amazon.com company, today announced that Weta Digital is going all-in on AWS, leveraging the proven performance of the world’s leading cloud to create a new, cloud-based visual effects (VFX) workflow. This workflow includes a set of technologies for VFX artists that will underpin the studio’s global expansion, accelerate key portions of film production, and expand Weta Digital’s New Zealand operations, enabling its team of artists to collaborate on visual effects remotely.1

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Mulan big boost for Canterbury economy

by Star News — September 4, 2020

Canterbury is once again gracing global screens with the release of Mulan, Disney’s latest live-action remake today. The production came through New Zealand in 2018, filming in several locations in Otago and Canterbury. The much-anticipated film launches on Disney+ with Premier Access on September 4.

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‘So beautiful’: Mulan cast and Niki Caro talk filming in New Zealand

by Newshub — September 2, 2020

Ahead of its release on Disney Plus, the cast of Mulan along with its Kiwi filmmaker Niki Caro have spoken to The Project NZ.

News

Chinese war epic “The Eight Hundred” wins applause in New Zealand

by XinHua Net — August 29, 2020

Chinese war epic "The Eight Hundred" won applause from New Zealand moviegoers on Saturday. Professionals believed that the two countries have great potential for cooperation in film industry.

News

New major crackdown on one of the biggest online piracy groups in the world: international coordination led by Eurojust

by Eurojust — August 26, 2020

An alleged criminal network of copyright infringing hackers, mainly responsible for pirating movies and hosting illegal digital contents worldwide, was dismantled yesterday in a coordinated action between US authorities and their counterparts in 18 countries around the world, with Eurojust and Europol support. Over 60 servers were taken down in North America, Europe and Asia and several of the main suspects were arrested. The alleged illegal activity was causing tens of millions of USD in losses on an annual basis mainly to the US movie, television, and supporting industries.

News

New Zealand’s Screen Sector Releases 10-year Strategy

by Scoop- Screen Sector Strategy — August 24, 2020

Aotearoa New Zealand’s screen sector today launches the Screen Sector Strategy 2030, a 10-year roadmap designed to grow the sector’s resilience, collaborationa and capability.

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Pirate Subscription Services Now a Billion-Dollar U.S. Industry, Joint Digital Citizens Alliance-NAGRA Report Finds

by PR Newswire — August 6, 2020

Digital Citizens Alliance and NAGRA jointly released today an investigative report showcasing how illegal piracy subscription services in the United States have grown into a billion-dollar industry that steals from creators, circumvents legitimate TV operators, and poses risks for consumers. "Money for Nothing" details how a sophisticated ecosystem of thousands of retailers and wholesalers –through content theft and enabled by legal businesses–provides illicit piracy services to at least nine million U.S. households.

News

Taking the Maori to Hollywood

by Varsity — August 22, 2020

Emily Moss argues that we have nothing to fear from Waititi’s move into the mainstream, as he seems intent on taking his dynamic, distinct style and commitment to Indigenous narratives with him wherever he goes

News

Avatar 2: All the main details about the movie.

by Fox Exclusive — August 22, 2020

Avatar 2, also called James Cameron‘s Avatar 2 is an upcoming American science fiction movie. It is a sequel to 2009 movie ‘Avatar’. Cameron is the main man behind the scenes of the movie.

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Tenet Presents Risk and Reward for Film Industry

by Don Groves & Lori Flekser — August 20, 2020

To the relief of product-starved cinemas, Christopher Nolan’s international espionage thriller Tenet will be the first major blockbuster film released since COVID-19 erupted when it previews in New Zealand this weekend before officially opening on August 27, a week before a limited release in the US.

News

Daffodils Filming Locations: Explore New Zealand’s Beautiful Landscape on Hulu

by HITC — August 20, 2020

The hit musical drama Daffodils has just premiered on Hulu and many viewers are blown away by the beautiful New Zealand filming locations, but where exactly are they?

News

Neil Sandilands Joins ‘Sweet Tooth’ As Production Set For Mid-September In New Zealand

by Deadline — August 19, 2020

Flash star Neil Sandilands is to co-star in Sweet Tooth, Netflix’s upcoming drama series based on the DC Vertigo comic, which comes from Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey’s Team Downey, Jim Mickle, Beth Schwartz and Warner Bros. TV.

News

COVID Advisory #5 – Screen Recovery Package Update

by New Zealand Film Commission — August 13, 2020

The resurgence of COVID-19 in Auckland this week, shifting the Auckland region to Alert Level 3 and the rest of the country to Alert Level 2 until midnight Friday 14 August, has created uncertainty for all filmmakers living and working here.

News

As Film Festivals Go Online, a Competitive New Business Takes Shape to Support Them

by IndieWire — August 13, 2020

As the pandemic forced shutdowns worldwide, no aspect of the film industry faced a more immediate existential threat than the festival circuit. While mainstays from Cannes to Telluride chose not to hold events at all, others did the once-unthinkable: They migrated online. Now, the race is on to provide digital services that support the unexpected era of the virtual film festival.

News

What New Zealand’s COVID-19 Curveball Means For Its Booming Hollywood Productions

by Variety — August 12, 2020

As the magical creatures of Middle Earth prepare to resume venturing through Auckland, New Zealand, for Amazon’s “Lord of the Rings” prequel series, the mythical world of Pandora has been bursting into life for James Cameron’s “Avatar” sequels in Wellington, just one hour’s flight south.

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Avatar producer praises Kiwi crew for their artistry, shares picture of James Cameron on set

by Stuff — August 13, 2020

Avatar producer Jon Landau has praised the work of Kiwi crews on the film’s sequel.Landau shared two new behind-the-scenes shots from the Wellington-based set of the sci-fi series.

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Kiwi film stars applaud Timaru audience as Covid-19 chews box office receipts

by Stuff — August 12, 2020

Kiwi film-goers have been applauded for supporting the industry amid the Covid-19 fallout.

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New $45m film studio planned for Upper Hutt near Wellington

by RNZ — August 11, 2020

A brand new $45 million film studio for the Wellington region is being bankrolled by just one Upper Hutt family.

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Cast may be forced to exit Avatar if New Zealand production delays continue

by Stuff — August 6, 2020

One of the stars of the Avatar sequels has warned cast members may need to pull out if production on the films is delayed any further.

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Hawke’s Bay wants a slice of New Zealand’s lucrative film industry

by 1 News — July 31, 2020

Work is underway to establish a regional film office to capitalise on growing demand for film production in New Zealand in a Covid-19-hit world.

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MBIE’s withdrawal of objectives paper sets path for transparent and collaborative review process with rightsholders

by Sandy Gildea, SPADA — July 28, 2020

Rightsholders including SPADA, which represents screen producers across New Zealand, have welcomed the decision by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) this month to withdraw the “Review of the Copyright Act 1994: MBIE’s approach to policy development” document, and to initiate consultation with stakeholders on revised objectives for the Copyright Act Review process later this year.

News

NZ International Film Festival opens in Chch on Friday

by Star News — July 20, 2020

The Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival kicks off in Christchurch this week - and organisers aren't letting a global pandemic derail the movie magic.

News

Film and arts sector crews- coping after Covid

by RNZ — July 12, 2020

New Zealand has one of the few functioning film industries in the world since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, but things are not so rosy for others working in the entertainment industry - the technicians, set builders and sound and lighting crew for music festivals, theatres and operas.

News

Revealed: The six productions joining Avatar in getting border exemptions

by Stuff — July 3, 2020

International workers for seven overseas productions have now been given permission to get past New Zealand's almost-closed borders.

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New Zealand Injects $48 Million for Screen Industry Recovery

by Variety — July 1, 2020

The New Zealand government is to inject $48 million (NZ$74.4 million) of cash to help the film and TV industries recover from the economic effects of the coronavirus and the country’s strict lockdown measures. The financial package was announced Wednesday by Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Carmel Sepuloni.

News

‘The Trip To Greece’ tops New Zealand box office as cinemas return to full capacity

by Screen Daily — June 18, 2020

The Trip To Greece – the fourth and final film in Michael Winterbottom’s The Trip franchise – has led the New Zealand box office chart after the first week since all Covid-19 restrictions were lifted.

News

BGT Actors Models & Talent bizarre casting call for Lord of the Rings television series

by NZ Herald — June 24, 2020

A talent agency has released a bizarre casting call for "funky looking" Kiwis to feature in the Lord of The Rings television series — which is tipped to resume pre-production next month in West Auckland.

News

Filming in Kāpiti complete for feature film Poppy

by NZ Herald — June 18, 2020

After being the first film to resume shooting in New Zealand after lockdown, and one of the first to resume internationally, Poppy Pictures has wrapped up the production of Poppy.

News

Avatar crew resumes filming in Wellington after 14 days in quarantine

by NZ Herald — June 18, 2020

James Cameron and his crew have just come out of 14 days in quarantine to resume filming the Avatar sequels.

News

Jane Campion movie starring Cumberbatch, Dunst is second film allowed in

by Stuff — June 18, 2020

The makers of a Jane Campion film, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst, has been revealed as the one which said the project may be ditched without border exemptions.

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Avatar will bring 400 jobs and $70m to New Zealand, says producer

by Stuff — June 16, 2020

Avatar producer Jon Landau says getting the film back up and running will bring jobs to 400 New Zealanders and pump over $70 million into the economy.

News

Covid-free New Zealand: The answer to the film industry’s prayers?

by Stuff — June 14, 2020

A leading Australian screen industry figure says New Zealand's Covid-free status gives it a huge advantage when it comes to enticing high-value overseas film and TV productions.

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Hoyts to re-open all of its NZ cinemas tomorrow

by NZ Herald — June 11 2020

Cinema chain Hoyts will reopen all of its cinemas tomorrow evening.

News

All Hoyts, some Event and Rialto cinemas reopening this weekend

by Newshub — June 10 2020

All Hoyts movie theatres in New Zealand are reopening this weekend along with one of Event Cinemas' flagship venues and Rialto Newmarket.

News

Influx of movie industry workers will ‘supercharge’ NZ’s economy, Film Commission says

by OneNews — June 4 2020

An influx of foreign film crews will create thousands of jobs for Kiwis and "supercharge" New Zealand's economy after the Covid-19 pandemic brought production to a halt, a film expert says.

News

New Zealand Film Commission Awards $1.2 Million To New Zealand Screen Businesses

by Scoop — June 3 2020

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) announced today that over $1.2million has been awarded to 33 companies, through its business and slate development schemes BOOST, BOOST UP and He Ara.

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NZ sees increased interest from international film projects

by NBR.co.nz — June 9 2020

Studio owner and veteran film tech executive Stephen Pryor is seeing double the amount of interest from international productions to film in New Zealand than before Covid-19.

News

New Zealand’s film industry heads back to work after coronavirus

by Global News — June 7 2020

New Zealand’s capital has had an extra buzz of excitement over the past week since Hollywood director James Cameron and his crew flew in to film the much-anticipated sequel of the epic science-fiction film “Avatar.”

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Time to call ‘Cut!’ on the Government’s film subsidy

by Stuff — June 3 2020

The economy began to open up over the weekend as New Zealanders flocked to their favourite holiday spots.

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Vista Group plans job cuts as global cinemas remain closed

by Stuff — June 4 2020

Film software company Vista Group has announced an unspecified number of redundancies as cinemas continue to struggle with Covid-19 restrictions.

News

We should welcome the Avatar crew, tell them to bring all their mates too

by Stuff — June 3 2020

It really does seem like there's one rule for some and another for everyone else when it comes to entry to New Zealand.

News

Jon Landau teases Avatar 2 plot details

by The List — May 28 2020

'Avatar 2' producer Jon Landau has hinted that the movie will focus on the Sully family's efforts to survive

News

Avatar movie crew among ‘couple of hundred’ foreigners let into New Zealand under coronavirus exemptions

by ABC.Net — May 27 2020

Key individuals behind the sequel to Hollywood blockbuster Avatar are among hundreds of foreigners being quietly let into New Zealand under little-known exemptions to its closed-border regime.

News

The price of literature: writers take on Government over fair pay

by Stuff

Writers fear their ability to earn will be further eroded as the results of reviews affecting their revenue streams near completion. Kelly Dennett reports.

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Avatar producer Jon Landau on his return to New Zealand

by RNZ.Co.NZ — May 24 2020

The producer of the Avatar sci-fi movie sequels says he has no qualms coming back to New Zealand during the Covid-19 recovery phase.

News

Budget 2020: Live: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Covid 19 recovery and Govt’s $50b response: ‘It will be painful’

by NZ Herald — May 14 2020

The Government will spend a mammoth $50 billion on its Covid-19 recovery plan in a bid to save almost 140,000 jobs nationwide, according to this year's Budget.

News

‘We were hearing whispers’: How Weta Digital knew about Covid 19 before the headlines

by NZ Herald — May 14 2020

Even before Covid-19 hit the headlines, Weta Digital in Wellington was preparing for a possible pandemic.

News

Coronavirus: Hollywood looks to New Zealand amid US Covid-19 crisis

by Stuff — May 13 2020

Segments of Hollywood are looking to move to New Zealand's near-Covid-free shores as the country's film industry stands to win big in coming months.

News

Coronavirus: New Zealand’s future in the hands of tech innovators and screen industry

by Andre Chumko Kelly Dennett — 17 May 2020

New Zealand has a small window of opportunity to become the tech and film capital of the world as the globe looks favourably on our pandemic response but, experts say, we must act now.

News

New Zealand is ready for its close-up as most of film industry remains sidelined by COVID-19

by Ethan Sacks — 16 May 2020

It may not be long before cameras roll again on the "Avatar" sequels, and more Hollywood projects may look to "Middle-earth" as a film location.

News

New Zealand Returns To Production, Paving Way For ‘Avatar’ Sequels & ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Series To Resume Filming

by DEADLINE — May 7 2020

New Zealand’s health and safety production protocols have been endorsed by the national government, we can reveal, meaning production can restart in the country after it was halted by the coronavirus pandemic.

News

Could the film industry revive Queenstown Lakes Covid-19 crippled economy?

by RNZ.Co.NZ — May 7 2020

The film and screen industry can help Queenstown Lakes' crippled economy emerge from the coronavirus crisis, advocates say. Queenstown Lakes' economy is expected to shrink by 40 per cent and unemployment may rise to 30 per cent as the district's $3 billion tourism industry has been devastated by the pandemic.

News

Taika Waititi to Direct New ‘Star Wars’ Film

by Variety — May 8 2020

Taika Waititi will direct a new “Star Wars” movie for theatrical release, which he’s co-writing with “1917” scribe Krysty Wilson-Cairns, Disney and Lucasfilm announced on Monday.

News

Michael Bennett 2020 Te Aupounamu Māori Screen Excellence Award Recipient

by Scoop

Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission is pleased to announce writer/director Michael Bennett is this year’s recipient of Te Aupounamu Māori Screen Excellence award grant of $50,000 to support his professional development and projects.

News

New Zealand International Film Festival 2020 to be presented entirely online

by Newshub

The 2020 New Zealand International Film Festival will be presented in "an online format", say organisers.

News

Coronavirus: NZ company ScreenPlus says it has a solution to cinemas’ Covid-19 woes, but some aren’t convinced

by Stuff

While most cinemas are dormant with no income because of the Covid-19 lockdown, the Academy Cinema in Auckland is making money. The independent cinema, which specialises in art-house films, has signed up to a streaming platform run by Hamilton-based startup ScreenPlus, which enables cinemas to stream films on their websites.

News

Covid 19 coronavirus: Cinemas unlikely to reopen in level 2 because there are no new movies to screen

by NZ Herald

Some cinemas won't be reopening in level 2 - despite being allowed - as there won't be enough blockbusters around to make it worth their while.

News

Slice of heaven: Arcadia Station, where LOTR was filmed, has been sold to a Kiwi

by Stuff

Multimillion-dollar Arcadia Station, 30 minutes from Glenorchy at the top of Lake Wakatipu, has been sold with an unusual verbal caveat – much beloved old farm dog Bo can stay as long as he wants.

News

$700,000 funding boost for creatives in lockdown brings fresh content to NZ audiences

by By NZ On Air

On 1 April NZ On Air released a ‘Rapid Response’ RFP seeking creative ideas for content for commercial media platforms that have experienced an immediate reduction in revenue and local content due to the Covid-19 lockdown. The idea was to give creatives a chance to pitch ideas for projects that could be produced quickly, safely and in lockdown.

News

Over 5000 without jobs as local TV and film productions halt because of Covid-19

by OneNews

The pandemic is continuing to halt productions in New Zealand, including Amazon Studio's Lord of the Rings series and James Cameron's latest Avatar film. Work dried up virtually overnight for local actors, directors, writers and producers due to the virus. Screen Actors Guild Aotearoa president Brendon Durey says upwards of 5000 Kiwis in the industry are now out of a job.

News

Covid 19 coronavirus: SME tax relief, new commercial tenant measures introduced

by NZHerald

The Government has today announced a series of measures to provide relief for small and medium-sized businesses slammed by the coronavirus crisis. Measures include $3.1 billion in tax savings over two years.

News

$700,000 Funding Boost For Creatives In Lockdown Brings Fresh Content To NZ Audiences

by Scoop

Nine creative teams have been given the green light to create fresh new content to entertain New Zealand audiences, at a time when the local production sector has come to a grinding halt.

News

New Zealand festival spotlights films by Iranian women

by TEHRAN TIMES

A lineup of movies by Iranian women filmmakers has been reviewed in a special program organized by the Show Me Shorts Film Festival in Auckland, New Zealand, the organizers have announced.

News

New local streaming platform Academy On Demand launches in New Zealand

by Newshub

A new local streaming platform 'Academy On Demand' launched this week, giving Kiwi audiences access to a growing catalogue of top-notch New Zealand films as well as a host of other recent and classic international titles.

News

Avatar 2 Director James Cameron Reveals Movie Will Focus On Pandora Oceans & Rainforests!

by The Innersane

James Cameron, director of Avatar, has been very much secretive about the plot of the film. But recently, the Titanic director gave us some insight into the scheme of Avatar 2.

News

Authorities shut down ‘largest’ video piracy site

by Taipei Times

The Criminal Investigation Bureau has shut down what was reportedly the nation’s top video piracy Web site, 8maple.ru (楓林網), and arrested its two alleged proprietors in Taoyuan. Authorities estimated that the site had infringed on NT$1 billion (US$33.2 million) in copyrights owned by the movie and TV industries.

News

Auckland’s Academy Cinemas launches movie streaming platform

by Stuff

Auckland's Academy Cinemas is launching an online streaming service to help moviegoers during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

News

ScreenPlus, Vista Group partner on exhibitor VOD product

by Screen Daily

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic keeps theatres closed, technology company ScreenPlus has announced an exclusive partnership with cinema software specialist Vista Group to enable exhibitors to launch bespoke VOD platforms.

News

WarnerMedia Commits $100 Million To Fund For Idled Production Crews

by DEADLINE

With Covid-19 restrictions closing at least 60 shoots and leaving 20,000 people out of work, the industry is fearful of how long it will take to recover

News

Amazon’s Prime Video Cinema hub to corral new theater releases

by CNET

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread and force movie theaters to shut down, Amazon has launched a new hub featuring movies that Hollywood hoped you'd be watching right now in the theater. Amazon's Prime Video Cinema allows you to rent or buy recently released movies through the streaming service.

News

NZFC CEO Annabelle Sheehan diagnosed with COVID-19

by IF

The New Zealand Film Commission has confirmed CEO Annabelle Sheehan has been diagnosed with the COVID-19 novel coronavirus.

News

At least 170,000 lose jobs as film industry grinds to a halt due to coronavirus

by The Guardian

About 120,000 film industry workers have already lost their jobs in Hollywood as a result of the coronavirus shutdown, according to the US entertainment industry union IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees).

News

Netflix Creates $100 Million Coronavirus Relief Fund

by VARIETY

Netflix has created a $100 million relief fund to help members of the creative community who have been left unemployed and without a way to earn an income during the coronavirus crisis. The streaming giant said the bulk of the funds will go toward supporting laid-off crew members.

News

Screen sector covid-19 action group

by Screen industry

In response to the immediate impact of COVID-19 on the New Zealand screen industry, the sector has today announced the formation of the Screen Sector COVID-19 Action Group and a screen-specific online information hub.

News

Coronavirus: Lights, camera, inaction for New Zealand’s screen and performing arts industries

by Stuff

The year is 2020. A deadly virus borne from a bat in a food market rips through the world, as scientists scramble to develop a vaccine in time to save humanity as we know it.

News

Amazon’s Prime Video Cinema hub to corral new theater releases

by CNET

News

‘Avatar’ Sequels Halt Production in New Zealand Due to Coronavirus Outbreak

by VARIETY

Production of three “Avatar” sequels in New Zealand has been put on hold as a precaution against the coronavirus outbreak.

News

Coronavirus: Event Cinemas to close all movie theatres from today

by NZ Herald

All movie theatres are to be shut down because of the ongoing coronavirus situation in New Zealand.

News

History-Making $200 Million ‘Mulan’ Budget Didn’t Intimidate Niki Caro: ‘It Was Satisfying’

by Zack Sharf

"Mulan" is the most expensive live-action film ever directed by a female filmmaker.

News

Wind in the Willows movie to film in New Zealand

by MPA

News

BTS releases first episode of their Bon Voyage travel show filmed in New Zealand

by MPA

News

Competition for filming locations poses threat to NZ industry – top film executive

by MPA

News

Coming soon at the cinema: Six New Zealand shot and set films planned for 2020

by MPA

Comedy and crime await Kiwi cinemagoers in the months ahead, with the releases of New Zealand films about gang life, romance and the end of the world. Over the next seven months, at least six New Zealand-made and funded feature films will be released.

News

Disney dreams big with Māori and new exhibition to celebrate women

by Taroi Black

Māori photographers have collaborated with The Walt Disney company to celebrate real-life women and girls.

News

Geena Davis Unveils Partnership With Disney to “Spellcheck” Scripts for Gender Bias

by Patrick Brzeski

Geena Davis, the Oscar-winning actor and a tireless advocate for female representation onscreen, touched down Thursday in New Zealand to deliver the closing keynote speech at the country's pioneering Power of Inclusion Summit, which was held in downtown Auckland.

News

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Kicks Off Inclusion Summit With Call to Action

by Patrick Brzeski

New Zealand's inaugural Power of Inclusion Summit got off to a rousing start in Auckland Thursday morning with an opening keynote speech from the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, the world's youngest female head of state.

News

Maybe the Internet IS just a dumb pipe

by David Newhoff

News

BBC/TVNZ series The Luminaries is a gold mine for New Zealand

by Don Groves

The largest ever television series based on a New Zealand story to shoot in the country, The Luminaries is providing a significant boost to the local economy.

News

The hidden victims of online piracy

by Ben Falk