Latest news with #NewZealandFilmCommission
Scoop
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
KŌKĀ Launches In Over 100 Cinemas Nationwide: A Cinematic Journey Under The Stars Of Matariki
As the celestial cluster of Matariki rises in the winter sky, heralding a time of reflection, renewal, and connection, a new film emerges to illuminate the essence of this sacred season. KŌKĀ, the debut feature by director Kath Akuhata-Brown, is more than just a film—it is a deeply woven tapestry of Māori storytelling, language, and cultural reclamation. Launching this Matariki weekend, KŌKĀ will screen in over 100 cinemas across Aotearoa, supported by theatres eager to bring this uniquely Māori cinematic experience to local communities. KŌKĀ is not just a film; it is a celebration of te ao Māori, a tribute to the resilience of indigenous storytelling, and a reminder that healing often begins with looking to the stars. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Aotearoa, the story follows kuia Hamo (played by Hinetu Dell) and the troubled Jo (portrayed by Darneen Christian), two souls bound by fate and searching for healing, alongside Marcus (played by Te Kohe Tuhaka), whose presence adds depth and guidance to their journey. Their road trip, guided by the wisdom of Matariki, becomes a metaphor for reconciliation—both with their pasts and with each other. What makes KŌKĀ particularly poignant is its commitment to authenticity. It is the first feature film told entirely in the original Ngāti Porou dialect, a linguistic treasure carefully brought to life through collaboration with language and tikanga experts. This dedication to preserving te reo Māori aligns seamlessly with the themes of Matariki—a time when whānau gather to honour whakapapa and embrace the future. Director Kath Akuhata-Brown shares, "With KŌKĀ, I wanted to create a story that honours our ancestors and our language while showing that healing is possible when we come together under the stars of Matariki. It's a journey of connection—not just between two people, but between past, present, and future." Lead actress Hinetu Dell reflects, "Playing kuia Hamo was deeply moving. Her strength and vulnerability mirror the spirit of Matariki—guiding light in the darkness. I hope audiences feel the mana of our language and culture shining through every scene." Audiences are invited to see KŌKĀ at cinemas nationwide from this weekend. More than a film, KŌKĀ is a beacon of cultural pride—inviting all New Zealanders to reflect, reconnect, and embrace the wisdom of Matariki. KŌKĀ was funded through the New Zealand Film Commission's He Pounamu te reo Māori Feature Film Fund Initiative, which supports feature films in te reo Māori. It will be distributed by STUDIOCANAL in New Zealand and Australia.
Scoop
11-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Zealand Film Commission Initiates Next Phase Of Strategic Global Trade Mission In France And Ireland
Press Release – New Zealand Film Commission – NZFC Attending for the first time since 2016, NZFC are promoting the New Zealand screen sector and its appeal as both the home of incredible stories and storytellers, and a co-production and inbound production partner of choice. The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is doubling down on their global trade mission in 2025 by attending the Annecy International Animation Film Festival's business marketplace, Mifa, and solidifying its treaty partnership with Ireland. This year is the 40th edition of Mifa, the world's largest and most important animation business event, with more than 18,000 attendees from 117 countries in Annecy. Chris Payne, Head of Co-Production and Incentives, and Bevin Linkhorn, Investment and Development Executive, lead the 30-strong NZFC delegation in partnership with Screen Wellington – the largest ever New Zealand presence at Annecy. Attending for the first time since 2016, NZFC are promoting the New Zealand screen sector and its appeal as both the home of incredible stories and storytellers, and a co-production and inbound production partner of choice. 'Animation provides a major growth opportunity for New Zealand; like VFX it fits seamlessly into a digital economy. Supercharging the New Zealand animation industry involves scaling up the development and production of unique, universally resonant feature film and series animation for global audiences, while growing New Zealand's role as a key provider of animation services for the world's leading studios,' says Payne. For the first time, the NZFC is taking a booth at Mifa to promote the New Zealand animation industry, and to serve as a hub for the New Zealand delegation. The NZFC is also delivering a programme of sessions in partnership with key sister agencies and organisations such as those in Australia, Taiwan, Korea and Scotland, with the goal of developing relationships that lead to co-production and other collaborative outcomes. 'Mifa is the world's key animation market annually, attended by leading sector representatives from around the globe. This is a crucial date in the calendar for the NZFC to build on our recently announced support for the animation sector and goal to expand it. 'We're here providing a significant strategic opportunity to support local animation studios and practitioners to progress their slates of projects, secure co-production and market partners, and scale their business activities, while also attracting high value animation, post-production and visual effects work to New Zealand,' added Payne. One of the highlights of the Mifa schedule is a panel discussion involving NZFC, Screen Wellington, and New Zealand creatives from Ama Digital Studios (Auckland), Tai Huri Films (Whangārei) and 37 Degrees Studio (Wellington). A clear demonstration of New Zealand's ability to work at all levels and across the country, from internationally renowned Wētā FX to small, independent animation studios delivering unique, culturally distinctive work. Wētā FX will also be showcasing their work as part of a Studio Focus session, Story to Screen: Realizing a Filmmaker's Vision at Wētā FX delivered by Senior Animation Supervisor, Sidney Kombo-Kintombo and Animation Supervisor, Kevin Estey. Productions profiled in the session were supported by the New Zealand Government's Post, Digital and Visual Effects (PDV) rebate. Strengthening ties with treaty partner Ireland Prior to the NZFC delegation attending Annecy/Mifa, the NZFC visited Ireland to participate in Wellington and Galway UNESCO Cities of Film activities highlighting the Te Reo Māori/Gaeilge Animation Exchange in Galway. Ireland provides a strong example of the possibilities of growth within the animation sector, having increased its impact on the Irish economy fourfold since 2009 by developing this aspect of its creative output. A highlight was a visit to TG4, the Irish-language broadcaster based in the heart of rural Connemara, which has a key role in the development and production of Irish-language film, TV and digital content. Also included on the itinerary was a networking reception co-hosted with the New Zealand Embassy in Dublin, along with Wellington and Galway UNESCO Cities of Film, which celebrated both the Exchange and strategic connections for New Zealand with Screen Ireland and key Irish production companies and industry bodies. 'Ireland and NewZealand share a rich storytelling tradition and common creative values. Both our cultures treasure the spoken and written word, passed down through generations and champion authenticity and community. Our co-production treaty has been in place for nearly 20 years, and a key part of this longevity are the deep relationships NZFC has developed with Screen Ireland and the Irish industry in that time, borne out by co-produced feature films such as Come to Daddy and Evil Dead Rise, and the TV series, The Gone which is now in its second season,' says Chris Payne. The New Zealand screen sector contributes around $3.5 billion to the national economy and supports more than 20,000 jobs. The continued growth of this industry is dependent on the expansion of international opportunities and relationships, with a keen focus on new and existing markets for New Zealand, both of which are at the heart of the NZFC's global trade mission strategy.
Scoop
30-05-2025
- 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.
