Latest news with #NewZealandFilmCommission
Scoop
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Applications For The New Zealand Film Commission's He Kauahi Catalyst Open Today
The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) has announced they are accepting applications for the latest round of their He Kauahi Catalyst fund today. The He Kauahi Catalyst supports New Zealand filmmakers keen to progress their talents to the next stage and create exceptional narrative short films. Through this initiative up to $90,000 is available for narrative drama and animation short films. The fund's objectives include investing in talent by supporting the progression of local writers, directors, and producers; creating the potential for film festival success or a provocative cinema experience through unique voices, cultural specificity, and artistic excellence; and, enabling innovation and the potential to forge new pathways in film technology, audience experience and filmmaker talent. This current funding round opens today, Friday 30 May, and closes Monday 23 June, 1pm. Further application rounds will open in the second and third quarters of NZFC's financial year. For more information about the He Kauahi Catalyst fund, including how to apply and full guidelines, please visit the NZFC website. About the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is the government agency responsible for supporting and promoting New Zealand's vibrant screen industry. It invests in the development, production, and marketing of New Zealand films, both locally and internationally, and works to grow the country's reputation as a world-class destination for screen production. The NZFC provides production financing for New Zealand feature and short films, offers talent development initiatives, and administers the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) – a key driver in attracting major international productions. It also supports official co-productions and offers resources to connect New Zealand filmmakers with global partners. Through its dual focus on nurturing local storytelling and bringing international productions to New Zealand's shores, the NZFC plays a vital role in the economic and cultural growth of the screen sector.
NZ Herald
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NZ Herald
Trailer released for documentary about former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern
The trailer opens with a clap back. At a press conference shortly after Ardern was appointed the new leader of the nation, a reporter asked, 'Do you think you can credibly lead a nation?'. Ardern quickly rebutted, 'Would you like to tell me why you don't think I can?'. What follows are inspirational, candid and emotional moments of the 44-year-old as she navigates monumental crises, including the Whakaari White Island eruption disaster, the Christchurch mosque shootings, and the Covid pandemic, while managing motherhood. 'In a world accustomed to hardened, masculine leadership, Jacinda Ardern led with an unapologetic commitment to empathy and compassion. As filmmakers, we were guided by a central question: What does leadership look like when kindness and humanity are at its core?' said Utz and Welsh in a joint statement. The directors said their goal was to give audiences an 'intimate, front-row seat' to the significant pressures of leading a nation, especially in times of crisis, while juggling the realities of being a first-time mum. 'Her approach to leadership during times of immense pressure and uncertainty offers a powerful reminder of what's possible when leaders prioritise people. As female directors and mothers, this story felt personal to us,' they added. 'In a world facing complex human-centred challenges, we hope this film encourages audiences to see empathy and kindness as not just leadership strengths, but essential tools to building a better future.' In February, the documentary won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah. Another film about the former Prime Minister is set to be released later this year. Unlike Prime Minister, the second film reportedly titled Mania, has financial support from the New Zealand Film Commission. Ardern has previously expressed support for Prime Minister, a co-production between New Zealand company Dark Doris Entertainment and US company Madison Wells, noting that New Zealand taxpayers do not fund it. Speaking to Media Insider columnist Shayne Currie last June, Ardern said: 'It's a bit nerve-racking having a project like this out there but I think we've stopped seeing people in public life as human. 'Mine is a human story and a New Zealand story. If that makes a difference for someone else then I think that's worth sharing.' Since her departure from the Prime Minister role in 2023, Ardern has been appointed to a job specialising in technology governance at Harvard University and has continued her work for the Christchurch Call, which aims to combat online extremism.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
NZFC Strengthens International Partnerships With Plans To Launch International Placement Initiative
Press Release – New Zealand Film Commission The International Placement Initiative is designed for emerging to mid-career writers, directors and producers from Aotearoa, offering applicants the opportunity to develop their overseas industry networks, increase their skills, and gain work experience … The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) announced today its plan to launch an International Placement Initiative giving local filmmakers the opportunity to apply for internships at selected global film companies in New Zealand, Australia, UK, and Ireland. The International Placement Initiative is designed for emerging to mid-career writers, directors and producers from Aotearoa, offering applicants the opportunity to develop their overseas industry networks, increase their skills, and gain work experience within renowned film focused companies. NZFC Chief Executive, Annie Murray, says the Commission has timed the launch of the new initiative to coincide with their global trade mission across Mumbai, London and Cannes. 'Our global trade mission is designed to connect New Zealand filmmakers with international film companies, enabling them to forge partnerships. The International Placements Initiative is a natural extension of our commitment to supporting, empowering and championing the film sector of Aotearoa. 'Strategic investment in New Zealand talent is essential for ensuring the future success of our film industry. Future proofing the $3.5 billion screen sector is crucial to its continued performance and this initiative is one of the key ways to achieve this.' Internships under the initiative will be offered by: Keeper Pictures (Ireland), Studio Canal (New Zealand), Kismet Distribution / Brouhaha Entertainment (Australia), Good Chaos (UK), Protagonist Pictures (UK), and Misfits Entertainment (UK). 'We're hugely excited to be partnering with such an impressive selection of production companies across key countries. The calibre of the work they produce is incredibly high, giving our emerging New Zealand creatives the opportunity to be mentored by world-leading filmmakers,' says Murray. Further placement opportunities will be confirmed in the coming months. More information on the initiative, including how to apply, will be available on our website soon. About the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is the government agency responsible for supporting and promoting New Zealand's vibrant screen industry. It invests in the development, production, and marketing of New Zealand films, both locally and internationally, and works to grow the country's reputation as a world-class destination for screen production. The NZFC provides production financing for New Zealand feature and short films, offers talent development initiatives, and administers the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) – a key driver in attracting major international productions. It also supports official co-productions and offers resources to connect New Zealand filmmakers with global partners. Through its dual focus on nurturing local storytelling and bringing international productions to New Zealand's shores, the NZFC plays a vital role in the economic and cultural growth of the screen sector.
Scoop
20-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
NZFC Strengthens International Partnerships With Plans To Launch International Placement Initiative
The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) announced today its plan to launch an International Placement Initiative giving local filmmakers the opportunity to apply for internships at selected global film companies in New Zealand, Australia, UK, and Ireland. The International Placement Initiative is designed for emerging to mid-career writers, directors and producers from Aotearoa, offering applicants the opportunity to develop their overseas industry networks, increase their skills, and gain work experience within renowned film focused companies. NZFC Chief Executive, Annie Murray, says the Commission has timed the launch of the new initiative to coincide with their global trade mission across Mumbai, London and Cannes. 'Our global trade mission is designed to connect New Zealand filmmakers with international film companies, enabling them to forge partnerships. The International Placements Initiative is a natural extension of our commitment to supporting, empowering and championing the film sector of Aotearoa. 'Strategic investment in New Zealand talent is essential for ensuring the future success of our film industry. Future proofing the $3.5 billion screen sector is crucial to its continued performance and this initiative is one of the key ways to achieve this.' Internships under the initiative will be offered by: Keeper Pictures(Ireland), Studio Canal(New Zealand), Kismet Distribution / Brouhaha Entertainment(Australia), Good Chaos(UK), Protagonist Pictures(UK), and Misfits Entertainment(UK). 'We're hugely excited to be partnering with such an impressive selection of production companies across key countries. The calibre of the work they produce is incredibly high, giving our emerging New Zealand creatives the opportunity to be mentored by world-leading filmmakers,' says Murray. Further placement opportunities will be confirmed in the coming months. More information on the initiative, including how to apply, will be available on our website soon. About the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is the government agency responsible for supporting and promoting New Zealand's vibrant screen industry. It invests in the development, production, and marketing of New Zealand films, both locally and internationally, and works to grow the country's reputation as a world-class destination for screen production. The NZFC provides production financing for New Zealand feature and short films, offers talent development initiatives, and administers the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) – a key driver in attracting major international productions. It also supports official co-productions and offers resources to connect New Zealand filmmakers with global partners. Through its dual focus on nurturing local storytelling and bringing international productions to New Zealand's shores, the NZFC plays a vital role in the economic and cultural growth of the screen sector.
Scoop
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Celebrating New Zealand Film Sector Wins At 2025 Global Production Awards In Cannes
The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) congratulates the outstanding achievements of the Māoriland Charitable Trust and Craig Gainsborough of Greenlit, recognised at the prestigious 2025 Global Production Awards, held in Cannes this week. Māoriland Charitable Trust took out the Economic and Social Inclusion category, while the Impact Leadership Award went to Craig Gainsborough – showcasing the creativity and innovation Aotearoa is famed for. 'We're delighted for Craig and the Māoriland Charitable Trust. To be recognised at the Global Production Awards demonstrates the reputation Aotearoa has as a leading film sector that celebrates indigenous storytelling and exceptional leaders,' says Annie Murray, NZFC Chief Executive. 'These awards celebrate those behind the scenes of what we see on screen. It's incredibly heartening to see New Zealanders ranked alongside some of the most well-regarded international names in the industry,' she added. Renowned for celebrating excellence in film production around the world, the Global Production Awards recognise the people, places and projects that drive the film industry forward. NZFC representatives attended the Global Production Awards as part of their global trade mission in Cannes. Murray added, 'These awards were made all the more special by the NZFC being in attendance alongside Māoriland Charitable Trust and Craig Gainsborough as they were announced. Our global trade mission is focused on building creative and commercial partnerships to elevate New Zealand within the international screen industry – to be recognised by our peers at these awards solidifies the depth of talent and skills Aotearoa has to offer.' About the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is the government agency responsible for supporting and promoting New Zealand's vibrant screen industry. It invests in the development, production, and marketing of New Zealand films, both locally and internationally, and works to grow the country's reputation as a world-class destination for screen production. The NZFC provides production financing for New Zealand feature and short films, offers talent development initiatives, and administers the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) – a key driver in attracting major international productions. It also supports official co-productions and offers resources to connect New Zealand filmmakers with global partners. Through its dual focus on nurturing local storytelling and bringing international productions to New Zealand's shores, the NZFC plays a vital role in the economic and cultural growth of the screen sector.
