NZ film sold worldwide after Cannes screening

Sir Anthony Hopkins in Invercargill during filming.

The World's Fastest Indian, a movie shot mainly in Southland, could become an international hit after it screened to buyers at the Cannes Film Festival.

Producer Gary Hannam said there had been three private screenings for buyers at Cannes and the movie, which stars Oscar-winning actor Sir Anthony Hopkins, has now been sold to distributors worldwide.

More screenings are planned in Britain, France and Spain for buyers who have not yet seen it, he said and it has also been invited to the Toronto Film Festival later in the year.

The movie is based on the life of legendary Invercargill motorcycle speedster Burt Munro, played by Hopkins.

Much of the film was shot in Southland last November and December.

Hannam said the public release of the film, planned for October, could be delayed to January or February to coincide with the Academy Awards.

There was some talk Sir Anthony could be nominated for his performance as Munro, he said from Switzerland.

"(The movie) works because of the character. It's emotional in a way you wouldn't expect," Hannam said.

Hardened buyers had laughed and cried their way through the movie screening, he said. "We are very, very pleased. We can't wait for a Southland audience to see it."

Invercargill has been promised the Australasian premiere by the distributor Becker Entertainment and may even host the world event.

- nzpa