Anyone else noticing a rather interesting trend? A few of the major NZ New Agencies are getting interviews with Peter Jackson and Philippa Boyens on the actual sets for the upcoming Hobbit films. The previous interview from TVNZ was in Gollum’s Cave (see below), and the following from 3 News is inside the rebuilt Bag End set! Thanks to Ringer Pippin for the link. (Hey, I want to see Smaug’s Lair please) [3News Video]
Category: Locations Sets
As news of the apparent resolution to this whole Hobbit mess hits the wire, we have more video to show you of the protest, and the local news coverage. First take a look at a fan made video of the protest, then a news report featuring Helen Kelly, president of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions.
New Zealand media commentator Russell Brown lends his perspective of where breakdowns have occurred along the path of seeking rights for New Zealand actors.
“If production of the Hobbit does indeed go to Ireland, there will be an extraordinary irony: the industrial relations environment around the film will be benign because Irish Equity did what New Zealand Actors’ Equity would have done had it been even minimally competent.”
A harsh look at NZAE, to be sure, but the piece also contains some good background information. Continued thanks to Kiwi staff member Ataahua for funneling all the ‘local’ media releases to us so quickly.
Co-producers and co-writers of the latest Tolkien movie production The Hobbit, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens joined took to the radio airwaves today to talk about the controversy surrounding the actors union and “Hobbit” production that has Wellington and even all of New Zealand in turmoil. Also on the show was Council of Trade Unions President Helen Kelly, who’s been involved in the complex negotiations on the film production. Walsh and Boyens can be heard right here while Kelly’s segment is available here. Both can be found here where you can download MP3s.
Economic Development Minister Gerry Brownlee told the New Zealand Harald that not only is the loss of “The Hobbit” films dreadful for New Zealand, it greatly impacts future film production in New Zealand. He said:
“It’s a dreadful situation and it’s going to take a bit of work to even get future productions into good shape.”
The article further says:
The Employers’ Chamber of Commerce Central’s president Jo Bransgrove said there would be a huge economic loss if the filming was lost abroad.
“The filming of The Hobbit provides an opportunity for the creation of thousands of jobs and the injection of millions of dollars into the local economy.
“The economic momentum generated from the success of the Lord of the Rings trilogy would be lost if it does not go ahead.
Ms Bansgrove said it would “disastrous” if the filming was lost.
You can read the whole article right here