Government backing bolsters films says Mallard

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

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

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

This year sees seven Oscar nominations for films shot in New Zealand.

Mr Mallard said Government support for the screen production industry through the Large Budget Screen Production Grants, which offered a 12.5 per cent rebate on New Zealand production spending over $15 million, was increasing the attractiveness of this country as a screen production location.

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

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

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

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

New Zealand's Weta wizards compete for more Oscars in the 78th Academy Awards in Los Angeles today.

But four-time Oscar winner and Weta Workshop chief Richard Taylor, who flew to Los Angeles on Friday, says King Kong's Naomi Watts also deserved a nomination for best actress.

And he hopes that actors who play digital characters will one day be recognised in best actor categories.

Watts played heroine Ann Darrow opposite the digitally-created gorilla played by actor Andy Serkis, who was Gollum in The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Peter Jackson's US$207 million ($315.2 million) blockbuster of King Kong has five Oscar nominations for best achievement in makeup, art direction, achievement in sound editing, sound mixing and visual effects.

"Naomi made the most staggering performance," Taylor said.

"Weta have created the first digital character that made an audience cry and that is an achievement.

"That pales compared to Naomi's performance opposite a digital character that made the audience cry.

"That is the sign of a truly phenomenal actress."