Govt responds to critical Film Commission review

Sir Peter jackson and Australian film academic David Court conducted the independent review of the NZFC last year and the Government has now responded to their conclusions. File photo / NZ Herald

The Government will evaluate financial incentives for the film industry as part of its response to Sir Peter Jackson's critical review of the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC).

Sir Peter and Australian film academic David Court conducted the independent review of the NZFC for nearly a year, and presented their findings to Parliament last July.

Many stakeholders and industry experts interviewed in the report criticised the organisation.

The Government today released its response to the report, in which it noted many of the recommended changes had either been implemented already or were under review.

The response sets out a work programme of areas for further evaluation, including financial incentives and professional development.

The work programme, to be undertaken by the Ministries of Culture and Heritage and Economic Development, is expected to wrap up in June next year after consultation with the sector.

Up for consideration are existing financial incentives, including the Large Budget Screen Production Grant and the Screen Production Incentive Fund, as well as alternative financial incentives, such as those recommended in Sir Peter's report.

Ways to better leverage foreign investment in co-productions will be considered, as will the strategic approach to negotiating future agreements.

The NZFC's professional development arrangements will be reviewed, and Sir Peter's recommendation for a new training costs levy on film productions will be considered in consultation with the NZFC and the industry.

Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Chris Finlayson said Government initiatives played a significant role in supporting the film and television industries.

"We recognise that the Film Commission has implemented a number of changes suggested in Sir Peter Jackson's review, and is continuing to make further changes following its release," he said.

"The review has also provided an excellent starting point for considering wider government support for the screen sector beyond the role of the role of the Commission."

Economic Development Minister David Carter said the screen industry, including film and television production, made a substantial contribution to the New Zealand economy, generating almost $3 billion in the year to March 2010.

"We need to look at enhancing the potential in the industry as well as meeting our cultural objectives," he said.

- NZPA