Oscar-winning film-maker Peter Jackson is to head a major government review of the Film Commission – a body he once accused of making poor funding decisions. The appointment was announced today by Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Chris Finlayson – with Jackson saying the review was timely in a rapidly changing international movie climate. David Court, head of screen business at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School, would work with Jackson on the review. The pair will examine the Commission’s legislation and constitution, its functions, powers and finances. “The NZ Film Commission is a vital and indispensable component of our film industry,” Jackson said. More..

Gregory Pyne writes: I am pleased to announce the formation of a Ringers fundraising group here in the Orlando area called Hobbit Meals. Hobbit Meals centers itself around a love and passion for all things Lord of the Rings, while at the same time generating money and foods for local food banks and charities. Since we are just getting started, our operation is quite simple. We host Hobbit Meal events where Lord of the Rings fans come to enjoy the movies and a full Hobbit-style spread of food over the course of a day (Hobbits, as written by J.R.R. Tolkien, were known to eat up to six meals a day). Continue reading “Enjoy a ‘Hobbit Meal’ for a Good Cause”