Leading Taiwanese Distributer James Liu - 2011 APN Symposium

8 Nov 11

James Liu, producer and founder of Taiwan’s leading film production and distribution company Joint Entertainment International, recently spoke to Film Auckland about his upcoming visit to New Zealand in November to attend the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers Network (APN) Symposium.

Liu – who founded Joint Entertainment International in 2005 –

James Liu, producer and founder of Taiwan’s leading film production and distribution company Joint Entertainment International, recently spoke to Film Auckland about his upcoming visit to New Zealand in November to attend the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers Network (APN) Symposium.

Liu – who founded Joint Entertainment International in 2005 – indicated that he is looking forward to his first trip to New Zealand which he says is vital for his mission to build relationships with industry partners overseas.

 “We are facing one big global market nowadays. Finding ideas, talent, financial support and international markets is critical,” says Liu.

“Frankly, it [The APN Symposium] is one of the most efficient ways to complete that mission.”

Liu has not yet had any significant interactions with the New Zealand industry but is excited about future prospects and says he would be interested in working on productions that are aimed at the New Zealand market or other English speaking territories.

In regards to his expectations of the Symposium Liu says he is looking forward to learning about New Zealand’s local film production capacity.  ”I would like to see how much Taiwan as a market means to the New Zealand film industry,” he adds.

Taiwan's film market has faced its share of downfalls over recent decades. In the late 1990’s it collapsed due to rising levels of piracy and prior to that local Taiwanese films were almost entirely absent from cinemas due to a growing preference amongst Taiwanese audiences for Hong Kong and Hollywood productions.

But Liu is proud to say that things are beginning to turn around.

“Taiwanese film is coming back. 2011 will be the year that is marked in history due to a record high market share for local films.”

The rise of Taiwanese film, according to Liu, is not only due to the boom of local productions but also due to significant changes to the political climate across the strait [mainland China].

In June 2010, Taiwan and mainland China greatly improved international relations when they each signed the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). The agreement aims to provide a major boost to two-way trade by eliminating tariffs on a range of items and opening up a range of services between the two nations.

Business for Liu is also flourishing. He currently has four separate projects that are at different stages of production including a drama about a Russian Jew in Shanghai titled Café Astoria, a Chinese romantic comedy titled Marry Go Round and a locally aimed Taiwanese family drama, Super Grandpa.  

Taiwan will play host to the next APN Symposium in 2012, something local industry are very excited about according to Liu. He also feels that the opportunity has come at an excellent time, referring to the current growth of the nation’s industry. 

“APN is the only pan-Pacific film producers’ organisation to my knowledge. Hence it is highly significant to Taiwan and the rest of Asia,” Liu says.

With over 20 years experience in film having worked at National Chengchi University, Arrow Cinematic Group, Sun Movie Channel and Spring International, Liu has produced numerous Asian films including Su Mi Ma Sen, Love (2008), Keeping Watch (2007) and For More Sun (2006). As director, his credits include Flame (1997) and A Scent of Incense (1989).

His company, Joint Entertainment, has acquired the rights to distribute a variety of films including a range of film-maker Yang Li-Chou’s award winning documentaries such as Young At Heart: Grandma Cheerleaders (pictured) and The Long Goodbye, both about  people dealing with old age, plus children’s movies Life Is Wonderful and Are You Winking At Me?

James Liu is one of two Taiwanese delegates attending the 2011 Symposium which is hosted by Film Auckland, November 11-13 at Unitec, Mount Albert.

Auckland is a new and foreign place for Liu but he is excitied about the chance to explore andtake in as much of the city as possible during his time here.

He explains “Since this is my very first time to Auckland, I would like to see and feel the city and interact with the people as much as I can. I enjoy walking or wandering the streets . I hope I will have some time to do just that.”

Japanese Godzilla Producer Looks For Future Collaborations In New Zealand

7 Nov 11

Legendary Japanese producer, Shogo Tomiyama, says that he looks forward to seeing what New Zealand film has to offer when he attends the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Symposium in Auckland this week.
 
“I wish to explore seeds for collaborative production,” he says.

The President of

Legendary Japanese producer, Shogo Tomiyama, says that he looks forward to seeing what New Zealand film has to offer when he attends the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Symposium in Auckland this week.
 
“I wish to explore seeds for collaborative production,” he says.

The President of Toho Studios – well known for his contribution to the Godzilla film series – is one of the most respected movie makers in Japan with a career spanning over more than 35 years.

A big fan of special effects, Tomiyama is no stranger to large scale productions with Hollywood-like budgets.  The final Godzilla film he produced in 2004, Godzilla: Last Wars, cost around US$19,500,000, the most expensive Godzilla film Toho had produced over the series’ 50 years.

The studio veteran says that forming meaningful relationships in New Zealand will need to start from humble beginnings.

He explains “it might be needed to start with a smaller budget project to achieve our relationship.”

He also adds that similarities Japan and New Zealand share as island nations could be helpful towards finding “common sympathies” as a starting point for co-productions.

The 5-year-old APN network currently has 15 members from New Zealand and Tomiyama feels that a a solid foundation has now been built..

“After an experienced five year annual assembly, it’s time to start discussing specific projects. We need to develop concrete ideas to implement,” he says.

While Hollywood is the obvious super-power in the world of film, the success of the industry in smaller markets such as New Zealand’s may very well depend on the ability to develop cross-cultural relationships with partners in Asia. An ability which Tomiyama suggests is more likely to be achieved by the younger generation of film-makers. 

But New Zealand is not the only party which stands to benefit from Asia-Pacific partnerships. Tomiyama says that Japanese cinema was hit with a 20% drop in audience receipts this year and there is a real focus on how to gain back the lost crowds.

Increasing challenges faced at a domestic level have resulted in greater recognition of the international market, even for non-English speaking countries. In Japan Tomiyama heads a number of project teams under UniJapan, the government organisation established to promote Japanese cinema abroad.

He says the APN offers the perfect opportunity for the leaders of Asia-Pacific film to come together to discuss solutions to challenges and achieve common goals.

“It [APN] is most significant for providing international support and co-operation any time, simply by making a telephone call,” he says.

The 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network Symposium will be held at Unitec, Mount Albert from November 11-13.

This will be Shogo Tomiyama’s first visit to New Zealand and he says that he is looking forward to meeting the people, seeing the city of Auckland and experiencing thegreat nature of New Zealand.

Deputy Director Of China's Top Film Body To Attend 2011 APN Symposium

28 Oct 11

China Film Bureau Deputy Director General, Mao Yu, has confirmed his attendance at the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers Network Symposium adding to an already impressive line up of more than 20 international delegates from Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand alongside the cream of the New

China Film Bureau Deputy Director General, Mao Yu, has confirmed his attendance at the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers Network Symposium adding to an already impressive line up of more than 20 international delegates from Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand alongside the cream of the New Zealand production sector.

The symposium is now just three weeks away and there are limited places still available for New Zealand industry to attend.

This is a not-to-be missed event with a world-class programme of speakers, both international and domestic, discussing production, co-production and post-production in the Asia-Pacific region.

Rub shoulders with top screen producers including Rob Tapert (Xena:Warrior Princess, Spartacus), Robin Scholes (Mr Pip, Once Were Warriors,), Trevor Haysom (In My Father’s Den), John Barnett (Whale Rider), Shogo Tomiyama (Ring, Seven Samurai), Jin Choi (Shiri, Taeguki) and Satoru Iseki (The World’s Fastest Indian).

There will also be industry representatives from the NZ Film Commission, Film NZ, Park Road Post Production, Images and Sound and Digipost. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to explore key issues alongside the leaders of Asia’s booming film industry. 

For more info on how to register visit: www.filmauckland.com/apn

The symposium is made possible with the generous support of core funder Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, gold sponsor UNITEC, funding partners Film New Zealand, the Ministry of Economic Development, the New Zealand Film Commission and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise and bronze sponsors ANZ, Digipost, Images and Sound and Pieter Holl & Associates.

Michael Stephens Appointed To Film and Literature Board of Review

22 Sep 11

Leading New Zealand film and entertainment lawyer, Michael Stephens, is one of three new appointments to the Film and Literature Board of Review announced by Internal Affairs Minister, Nathan Guy in late September.
Aucklander Eileen Swan, a private clinical psychologist,and  Wellingtonian Clare O’Leary, a specialist in digital media strategy

Leading New Zealand film and entertainment lawyer, Michael Stephens, is one of three new appointments to the Film and Literature Board of Review announced by Internal Affairs Minister, Nathan Guy in late September.
Aucklander Eileen Swan, a private clinical psychologist,and  Wellingtonian Clare O’Leary, a specialist in digital media strategy and documentary filmmaking, were alsoappointed.  

 “These members bring a variety of skills and experience to this important work,” says Mr Guy.

Michael Stephens is from Wellington and is the founding Principal of Stephens Lawyers.

Stephens has a long history with the New Zealand film industry. He has a great interest in the future of New Zealand and Asian co-productions as well as funding for film, animation and other digital media projects.

He is the current chairman of both the New Zealand Institute of Screen Innovation and  the Asia Pacific Film Fund, and co-chairman of the Korean Cinerama Trust New Zealand.

He also has many years involvement with the organisation of national and international film festivals and is an honorary adviser to the New Zealand/China Film Festivals. Most recently he was appointed New Zealand’s International Delegate of the Shanghai International Film Festival.

All new members have been appointed for three year terms, commencing on 25 August 2011.

The Film and Literature Board of Review is an independent statutory appeal body. Its purpose is to review the classification of publications referred to it under the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993, after the Office of Film and Literature Classification has classified that publication.

Production Starts On NZ-China Feature

9 Sep 11

Unforgettable Love, a feature directed by New Zealand's Simone Horrocks and China's Wang Lin, has now commenced production in Southern China's Yunnan region.

The start of production was marked by a press conference and official opening ceremony attended by Government officials and leading business figures in the city of Kunming last

Unforgettable Love, a feature directed by New Zealand's Simone Horrocks and China's Wang Lin, has now commenced production in Southern China's Yunnan region.

The start of production was marked by a press conference and official opening ceremony attended by Government officials and leading business figures in the city of Kunming last week.
The project represents a milestone in New Zealand film-making as Horrocks becomes the first Kiwi to work with a full Chinese crew on a project filmed in Mandarin.

Horrocks was invited to co-direct the project following the successful world premiere of her debut feature After The Waterfall in Beijing in 2010.

"After returning home, producer Mr Tan Ligeng, of China Jialong Culture and Communications Ltd, contacted me to say he was impressed by my film and asked if I would be interested in working in China ... after reading the script, which I loved, it was easy to say yes," says Horrocks.

The film which features Shanghai and Tokyo Film Festival award winner Mr. Wang Qianyuan (Best Actor), tells a story of great passion and love, when a girl is forced to choose between two worlds. Horrocks says Unforgettable Love has a universal message that will speak to everyone.

Although the film is not an official co-production, Horrocks believes that the project is an encouraging step towards bringing the two industries together which should be further enhances with the signing of the NZ-China Co-Production agreement last year.

A number of China's leading screen producers will be visiting New Zealand later this year to attend the 2011 Asia-Pacific Producers Network (APN) Symposium, hosted by Film Auckland at UNITEC Mount Albert, November 11-13.

Pitching Forum Submission Call APN Symposium 2011

5 Aug 11

Submissions are now being sought for project pitching at the Asia Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Symposium 2011 to be held on 13 November in Auckland.

Attending the forum will be many of Asia’s top producers including James Wang (Huayi Brothers), Shogo Tomiyama (Toho Studios) and James Choi (Kang Je-Kyu

Submissions are now being sought for project pitching at the Asia Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Symposium 2011 to be held on 13 November in Auckland.

Attending the forum will be many of Asia’s top producers including James Wang (Huayi Brothers), Shogo Tomiyama (Toho Studios) and James Choi (Kang Je-Kyu Films).

Ten projects will be selected to take up this extraordinary opportunity, with each allocated five minutes.  Successful projects will clearly demonstrate relevance to Asian markets and identify opportunities sought, including in areas of co-production financing and distribution. 

Successful applicants will be advised at the end of September and will be invited to attend a pre-forum pitching workshop in October, to be run by the NZ Writers’ Guild in association with the NZ Film Commission.   They will also be required to use AV material for their live presentation (to be delivered prior to the actual event); simultaneous language translation will be provided at the event.

FORMAT REQUIREMENTS

• Maximum of 2 x A4 pages, presented in Word format, plus attached budget
• All files should be named: APN 2011-[your name]-project title

CONTENT REQUIREMENTS – IN THIS ORDER

1. Project Working Title
2. Country and Language of Production
3. One sentence logline (be concise)
4. Synopsis of no more than 150 words
5. Any relevant technical information
6. Brief details of production company and key personnel
7. Target audience and any marketing plans
8. Type of partnerships sought (e.g. co-production, finance, distribution deals, etc.)
9. Full Contact Information including name, company, address, telephone, website, email

All submissions should be formatted as specified above and emailed to APN Symposium Co-ordinator Tina Bregant at tina.bregant@filmauckland.com

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS 5 SEPTEMBER 2011.  

Top Tier Asian Producers Confirmed To Visit NZ

5 Aug 11

Four of Asia’s most influential film industry figures have confirmed their attendance at the Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Forum in Auckland in November 2011.

Zhonglei (James) Wang, Shogo Tomiyama, Jin Wha (James) Choi and Satoru Iseki, representing leading film companies from China, Japan and Korea, head up a list

Four of Asia’s most influential film industry figures have confirmed their attendance at the Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network (APN) Forum in Auckland in November 2011.

Zhonglei (James) Wang, Shogo Tomiyama, Jin Wha (James) Choi and Satoru Iseki, representing leading film companies from China, Japan and Korea, head up a list of 23 delegates confirmed to date.

James Wang is the President of Huayi Brothers Media Corporation, China’s largest privately owned film production company.  Huayi’s movie ticket revenues of $1.6 billion Yuan in 2010 accounted for a 30 percent share of the Chinese market.  

James Choi is Chief Executive Officer of Kang Je-Kyu Films, one of Korea’s leading production companies, which produced Korean box office record breakers Shiri and Taeguki.

Shuguo Tomiyama is a producer at Toho Studios, a key production studio in the history of Japanese cinema that has produced a number of classics by legendary director Akira Kurosawa, including Seven Samurai, Hidden Fortress, Kagemusha, the Godzilla series and the international hit Ring.

Satoru Iseki, who began his career as production manager to Kurosawa, has become a senior Japanese producer with multiple credits to his name, including as executive producer of the New Zealand hit The World’s Fastest Indian and producer of Smoke, The Emperor and the Assassin and Battle of Wits - the biggest Hong Kong/Mainland China/Korea/Japan co-production of 2006.

The APN represents a group of more than eighty leading screen producers, primarily from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore and New Zealand.  Their annual symposium, hosted this year in Auckland from 11-13 November, offers a chance to develop relationships and generate new projects and partnerships.

“Bringing such a powerful group to New Zealand is incredibly exciting and provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the New Zealand screen industry,” says APN President, Paul Carran.

“The forum on Sunday 13 November is open to New Zealand industry and we’ll also be providing a pitching opportunity for up to ten New Zealand projects on that day, offering unmissable opportunities to network and engage with these industry leaders,” he said.

Hosted by Film Auckland, part of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), the annual symposium of the Asia-Pacific Producers Network is being held in New Zealand for the first time.  It is made possible with the generous support of UNITEC, Images and Sound, Pieter Holl and Associates, and funding partners Film New Zealand, the Ministry of Economic Development, the New Zealand Film Commission and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.

Pitching submission information and online conference registration for the 13 November conference can be found at www.filmauckland.com/apn

Ends

For further information please contact:
Anne O’Brien, APN Project Manager, 021 135 6821 / anne@verismo.co.nz

NZ-China Co-Production for 3D Animation Film

20 Jul 11

New Zealand and Chinese companies are joining forces to co-operate on a 3D animated feature film, Downside Story.

The film’s New Zealand co-producers Michael Bennett, whose work includes TV3 drama Outrageous Fortune and feature film Matariki, and  Maile Daugherty signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop the

New Zealand and Chinese companies are joining forces to co-operate on a 3D animated feature film, Downside Story.

The film’s New Zealand co-producers Michael Bennett, whose work includes TV3 drama Outrageous Fortune and feature film Matariki, and  Maile Daugherty signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop the 3D animated film project with Beijing based Xing Xing Digital Corporation.

The project, which has an estimated production cost of around NZ$18 million, qualifies for regional Chinese government funding alongside funding from the New Zealand Film Commission, which has already guaranteed NZD$30,000 towards the project.

Xing Xing Digital Corporation became involved after the project pitched for partners at the Shanghai International Film Festival last month. The digital animation company has previously worked on teen vampire hit Twilight and Ben Stiller comedy Tropic Thunder.

Academy Award winning Weta Workshop will also be involved in the collaboration having already provided some of the initial concept art.

A family action adventure set in Shanghai, Downside Story tells the story of teenage sewer rat Frankie Feng as he and his friends work to save a lost kitten which has fallen into Downside through a stormwater drain.

Aimed to work across different language platforms for both Chinese and international audiences, the film will be released in both English and Mandarin.

Although no date has been confirmed the film is expected for release sometime in 2013.

New Zealand Film and Screen Industry Invited to attend Asia-Pacific Producers Forum

6 Jul 11

Hosted by Film Auckland, the annual symposium of the Asia-Pacific Producers Network (APN) is being held in New Zealand for the first time from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November 2011.

Registration is now open for members of New Zealand’s film and screen industry to attend a forum with

Hosted by Film Auckland, the annual symposium of the Asia-Pacific Producers Network (APN) is being held in New Zealand for the first time from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 November 2011.

Registration is now open for members of New Zealand’s film and screen industry to attend a forum with network members on Sunday 13 November at UNITEC.

“With over 50 of the most senior screen producers, studios and distributors in Asia coming to Auckland, this is a fantastic opportunity for the local industry to make new connections,” says Michael Brook, Film Auckland Manager.

The forum will open with a keynote address, followed by local industry leader discussions on production, co-production, post-production, cross-cultural storytelling and an afternoon pitching session. 

As the screen industry becomes more global, Asia has been recognised as an area for growth – China’s box office grew 61 per cent in the last year alone.

APN was formed in 2005 to encourage co-productions, collaboration and joint projects. The forum offers a chance to develop relationships and generate new projects and partnerships between the film and screen industry across the Asia-Pacific region.

“Hosting the symposium in New Zealand is an opportunity for the Asian industry to learn first hand why we are so highly regarded on the international stage,” says Paul Carran, President of APN.

“Delegates are looking for New Zealand partners to make English language films that appeal to wider markets than their own. We encourage New Zealand’s screen industry to take advantage of this unique opportunity and register for the forum now.”
 
Mayor Len Brown says, “The screen industry in New Zealand is a key export earner. Film Auckland has been developing networks in Asia with both industry and government over a number of years and Auckland is proud to be hosting this important industry event.”

The symposium is made possible with the generous support of core funder Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, gold sponsor UNITEC and funding partners Film New Zealand, the Ministry of Economic Development, the New Zealand Film Commission and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.

For more information and to register visit www.filmauckland.com/apn    

New Zealand Signs Co-Production Agreement with India

1 Jul 11

New Zealand and India have signed a film co-production agreement during Prime Minister John Key’s recent official state visit to India.

The agreement, which had been under negotiation since 2007, will allow filmmakers in both countries to have their films given co-production status, easing the path for staffing

New Zealand and India have signed a film co-production agreement during Prime Minister John Key’s recent official state visit to India.

The agreement, which had been under negotiation since 2007, will allow filmmakers in both countries to have their films given co-production status, easing the path for staffing and equipment on films in both countries.
Film New Zealand executive Gisella Carr welcomed the signing, saying the Indian screen industry is “a worldwide phenomenon” equal to the US industry, and “any strategy that brings New Zealand into contact with such a juggernaut” will be of long-term benefit to the country.

“The reality is that the global screen business is moving incredibly quickly, and so what our industry will look like in ten years and what the Indian one will look like in ten years is anyone’s guess,” she said.

The increased exposure of New Zealand scenery is expected to boost tourism numbers, adding to the 30,000 Indians who have visited New Zealand in the past year, a figure that has doubled since 2004.

Bollywood movies are considered instrumental in the increase in tourism numbers. A noticeable spike occurred after last year’s release of the blockbuster I Hate Luv Stories, which was partly filmed in New Zealand.

“In the wider sense of economic and cultural value for New Zealand, having New Zealand looking gorgeous on the feature screens and television sets of millions of Indians can’t help but be good for us,” Carr said.

Japanese Subsidy Scheme Targets International Co-Productions

1 Jul 11

The Japanese film industry has launched a subsidy scheme, specifically targeting international co-productions, in a bid to promote Japanese cinema abroad.

The selective scheme, which targets small and medium budget movies and foresees cash pay-outs of up to US$620,000, is accessible by a two-step process. The first requires the

The Japanese film industry has launched a subsidy scheme, specifically targeting international co-productions, in a bid to promote Japanese cinema abroad.

The selective scheme, which targets small and medium budget movies and foresees cash pay-outs of up to US$620,000, is accessible by a two-step process. The first requires the Japanese co-producer to obtain a certificate of eligibility from UniJapan, the country’s advocacy body for promoting Japanese cinema abroad. The second step is an application by a certificate-holding producer to Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs.

Conditions of the scheme require a minimum qualifying expenditure of US$1.24 million on a project.  If approved, subsidy payments of up to 20% of expenditure can then be received with payments made to the Japanese producer rather than the project.

The new scheme represents a step forward for the Japanese industry, which currently has only a little-used co-production agreement with Canada in place.

Presentations to overseas producers to  raise awareness of the new scheme were recently held at Cannes festival and at the Annecy animation festival.

For more information on the scheme go to www.j-pitch.jp/english/

Asia Pacific Screen Awards MPA Project Wins Sydney Film Prize

20 Jun 11

The first completed project funded by the Asia Pacific Screen Awards’ inaugural MPA APSA Academy Film Fund has won the top prize at the Sydney Film Festival. Asghar Farhadi’s A Separation, was one of twelve films in contention for the AUD$60,000 Sydney Film Prize.

The official competition Jury was

The first completed project funded by the Asia Pacific Screen Awards’ inaugural MPA APSA Academy Film Fund has won the top prize at the Sydney Film Festival. Asghar Farhadi’s A Separation, was one of twelve films in contention for the AUD$60,000 Sydney Film Prize.

The official competition Jury was headed by legendary Chinese helmer Chen Kaige, who is also a member of APSA’s Academy which is made up of some 400 of Asia-Pacific’s leading filmmakers.

The Sydney Film Prize adds to A Separation’s growing collection of accolades which began in February at the Berlin International Film Festival where it won five awards including the Golden Bear for Best Film and the Silver Bears for Best Actor and Actress awarded to the ensemble cast.

The MPA APSA Academy Film Fund was launched in 2010 through a partnership with the Motion Picture Association (MPA) and is made up of four $25,000 development grants. It is available exclusively to members of the Academy of the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

The 2011 submission round for the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund opened last month and will close in October with four successful projects to be announced at the fifth annual APSA Ceremony.

APSA Chairman Des Power said: “We are very happy to see the ongoing success of A Separation and I am very proud that, through our partnership with the MPA, APSA has played a key part in helping this film come to fruition. Development is a critical phase and this fund undoubtedly helps the process by bringing funds to it. A Separation is ‘proof positive’.”

ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS
APSA is an international cultural initiative of the Queensland Government, Australia and a unique collaboration with UNESCO and FIAPF-International Federation of Film Producers Associations. APSA acclaims films from more than 70 countries and areas; one third of the earth; and half the world’s film output.

MOTION PICTURE ASSOCIATION
The MPA APSA Academy Film Fund is supported by the Motion Picture Association, representing the interests of major motion picture companies in the global marketplace. The MPA promotes and protects its member companies’ intellectual property rights and conducts education outreach programs to highlight to movie fans around the world about the importance of content protection. Its member companies include: Paramount Pictures Corporation; Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.; Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation; Universal City Studios LLLP; The Walt Disney Studios; and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

Murdoch Urges Chinese to Deregulate Film Market

17 Jun 11

Rupert Murdoch, head of multinational media conglomerate News Corp, urged China to open up its film market during his keynote speech at the Shanghai International Film Festival last week.

Speaking before a panel discussion on film finance attended by the top Chinese film regulator, Zhang Pimin, Murdoch said

Rupert Murdoch, head of multinational media conglomerate News Corp, urged China to open up its film market during his keynote speech at the Shanghai International Film Festival last week.

Speaking before a panel discussion on film finance attended by the top Chinese film regulator, Zhang Pimin, Murdoch said that, despite rapid growth, the Chinese film market was still underdeveloped.

"The promise of investment is not being fully realised because of market access,” he said.
Murdoch pointed out that Chinese box office revenues surged from $US150 million in 2005 to $US1.5 billion last year and a cinema-building rush is expected to raise the number of film screens in China from the current 6200 to 20,000 by 2016.
"The truth is, there is no more exciting market in the world than this one," Murdoch said.
Murdoch himself has had firsthand experience of the ‘excitement’. In 2009, Avatar - released by Fox a, unit of Murdoch’s Media Corp - brought in $US204 million at the Chinese box office.
China’s import restrictions limit the country to 20 foreign blockbusters a year.

"This presents significant challenges," Murdoch said, adding that limited access to foreign content encourages piracy.

Heavy restrictions on China’s film market have further added to the global shift towards new media platforms as foreign producers turn to mobile and digital productions to bypass such obstacles.  

China Leads The Way in New Media Platforms for Film Distribution

10 Jun 11

China’s leading internet service group, Tencent, recently became the largest shareholder of Asian film giant Huayi Brothers  signalling an ongoing shift in that market towards new media platforms for film distribution.

The 4.6% stake, acquired for US$69.3 million, is the second largest investment by Tencent this year and follows

China’s leading internet service group, Tencent, recently became the largest shareholder of Asian film giant Huayi Brothers  signalling an ongoing shift in that market towards new media platforms for film distribution.

The 4.6% stake, acquired for US$69.3 million, is the second largest investment by Tencent this year and follows Youku and Tudou Inc, two of China’s top three online video platforms, making similar agreements with Warner Bros and Disney Media respectively.

LeTV Pictures, another large Chinese online video platform, has also collaborated with Huayi Brothers purchasing $57 million yuan worth of online copyrights this year.

The latest alliance brings together two of China’s largest media entities. Huayi’s movie ticket revenues of 1.6billion yuan in 2010 accounted for a 30% share of the Chinese Market.  Tencent currently caters to around 647 million users of its instant messaging, social networking and gaming services.

A  recent ‘Virtual Network Index’ report from networking firm CISCO, revealed that China now has the world’s highest number of internet video consumers, with 284 million Chinese, around a quarter of its population, watching video online. 

From the same report, as of 2010 online revenue in China 3.14 billion yuan, a 44% increase from 1.76 billion yuan the previous year.

Distributing films on new media platforms allows consumers to access content online through any internet enabled device and

provides film production companies with the means to reach considerably larger audience than theatrical distribution.   Online broadcasting also helps to counter piracy and the illegal reproduction of hard copy formats such as DVD.

NZ Short a FInalist in Inaugural Mobile Film Competition

30 May 11

New Zealand short film Pacific Dreams has beaten more than ten thousand entries to be one of 60 finalist films in the inaugural Mobile SIFF competition section of the prestigious Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF).

An independent production directed by David Strong, Pacific Dreams tells the story of

New Zealand short film Pacific Dreams has beaten more than ten thousand entries to be one of 60 finalist films in the inaugural Mobile SIFF competition section of the prestigious Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF).

An independent production directed by David Strong, Pacific Dreams tells the story of one elderly woman’s struggle to uphold her human dignity in a rest home.

The 12 minute short features a local cast including Don Landridge, Tina Cleary and Dame Kate Harcourt, all of whom volunteered their services.

Pacific Dreams will go on from Shanghai to screen at the Rhode Island International Film Festival in August.

SIFF is the first A-list international film festival to launch a mobile film section and allows for all Chinese mobile subscribers to view competing films via mobile phones and other mobile devices.

The Festival runs 11–19 June, with winners of the SIFF Mobile competition announced on June 18.

Three NZ films to screen at Shanghai International Film Festival

26 May 11

New Zealand films Desert, Love Birds and Tracker have been selected to screen in the Panorama section of the 14th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 11-19.

Directed by Stephen Kang, Desert tells the story of a pregnant Asian girl forced to fend for herself after she is abandoned

New Zealand films Desert, Love Birds and Tracker have been selected to screen in the Panorama section of the 14th Shanghai International Film Festival, June 11-19.

Directed by Stephen Kang, Desert tells the story of a pregnant Asian girl forced to fend for herself after she is abandoned by her Kiwi boyfriend and rejected by her Asian community for becoming pregnant to a westerner before marriage.

This is the second Asian success for Desert which premiered at the 2010 Busan Film Festival and comes on top of Kang’s recent success at Cannes with his short film Blue which was awarded the Grand.

Love Birds, a romantic comedy from writer Nick Ward and director Paul Murphy, is the second collaboration between the pair who also delivered Second Hand Wedding.

Starring NZ comedian Rhys Darby and Golden Globe Winning actress Sally Hawkins, the film tells the story of a regular Kiwi bloke who finds himself on a quest to find true love with the help of a native New Zealand duck.

Tracker completes the line-up of NZ films in Shanghai.  A UK/NZ co-production, written by Nicholas van Pallandt and directed by Ian Sharp, it features

Ray Winstone and Temuera Morrison in a tale of the collision of a South African Boer War survivor in colonial New Zealand with the  Maori sailor accused of murder that he tracks for a large bounty.

Since being formed in 1993, Shanghai has become the world’s fourth largest international film festival and China’s only A-category international film festival accredited by the FIAPF.

Short Film 'Blue' To Compete At Cannes

16 May 11

New Zealand director Stephen Kang’s short film Blue is currently screening at the 64th Cannes Film Festival.  Selected in April, the film beat over 1200 applicants globally to be one of just ten short films competing for the Palme d'Or du court métrage for best short film.

One

New Zealand director Stephen Kang’s short film Blue is currently screening at the 64th Cannes Film Festival.  Selected in April, the film beat over 1200 applicants globally to be one of just ten short films competing for the Palme d'Or du court métrage for best short film.

One of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals, this year’s panel of judges is chaired by actor/director Robert De Niro.  Other participants include Uma Thurman, Jude Law, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

This follows the selection of Kang’s feature Desert, for screening in the Busan International Film Festival in 2010.

Kang’s film tells an odd and tragic story of a once famous children’s television show character who works as a waiter in a small restaurant.

He will be one of the speakers at the Asia-Pacific Producers’ Network Symposium in Auckland in November 2011.

'My Wedding' Shape of Things to Come

11 Apr 11

Local industry body Film Auckland CEO Michael Brook says My Wedding and Other Secrets, the first New Zealand-made film to screen in both English and Chinese with Chinese subtitles, is a sign of things to come as "a growing number of Kiwi film-makers turn to China in the hope of

Local industry body Film Auckland CEO Michael Brook says My Wedding and Other Secrets, the first New Zealand-made film to screen in both English and Chinese with Chinese subtitles, is a sign of things to come as "a growing number of Kiwi film-makers turn to China in the hope of making it big." Read the NZ Herald article here ... http://www.nzherald.co.nz/cultures/news/article.cfm?c_id=105&objectid=10718421

Film Auckland Hosts China Film Association

14 Dec 10

Last week Film Auckland hosted a high level delegation from the China Film Association, the largest screen industry membership body in China. This visit was a follow up to the MOU agreement of cooperation signed between the two organisations in June 2010.

The delegation was led by Kang Jianmin,

Last week Film Auckland hosted a high level delegation from the China Film Association, the largest screen industry membership body in China. This visit was a follow up to the MOU agreement of cooperation signed between the two organisations in June 2010.

The delegation was led by Kang Jianmin, Deputy CEO of the CFA. Also in the group was famous director Yin Li, Vice Chair of the CFA and Yang Win, one of China's leading actors.

In Auckland, after a visit to Digipost the group met Auckland film industry professionals in an open panel discussion about working with China, a forum hosted by Unitec. Locals on this panel were Pete Rive, Chair of Film Auckland; Paul Carran, President of the Asia Pacific Producers Network and Athina Tsoulis, Head of Performing Arts at Unitec. It was a lively and informing discussions to a full house of local producers, directors, writers, media and students.

The group then moved to Wellington in a programme hosted by Film Wellington and Film New Zealand. Visits included Park Road Post, Weta Workshop and meetings with the NZFC.

Finally the delegation visited Queenstown, where they were hosted by Film Queenstown.

The enitre visit once again showed that China's filmmakers are very motivated to work with New Zealand partners and it was wonderful to have the opportunity to talk with colleagues from China.

The visit was coordinated with Film Auckland longtime collaborator on China, Mr Jim He form the Pacific Arts and Culture Exchange.

FA & Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Film Academy MOU

20 Oct 10

20th October, 2010 Qingdao Pete Rive, the Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland on behalf of Film Auckland signed an MOU with Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Film Academy with Professor Yang Li. The Institute promises to be the biggest 3D and animation school in China.  

20th October, 2010 Qingdao Pete Rive, the Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland on behalf of Film Auckland signed an MOU with Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Film Academy with Professor Yang Li. The Institute promises to be the biggest 3D and animation school in China.  

Golden Rooster Awards Delegation

15 Oct 10

15th October, 2010 Pete Rive, the Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, led a film industry delegation to the Golden Rooster Awards. Directors Simone Horrocks and the UNITEC Head of Performing and Screen Arts, Athina Tsoulis were invited to enter the international section of the Awards. Jim He of the Pacific

15th October, 2010 Pete Rive, the Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, led a film industry delegation to the Golden Rooster Awards. Directors Simone Horrocks and the UNITEC Head of Performing and Screen Arts, Athina Tsoulis were invited to enter the international section of the Awards. Jim He of the Pacific Culture and Arts Exchange, and Mr Yan a producer completed the delegation. The delegation was hosted as guests of the China Film Association.

FILM AUCKLAND: NZ STRENGTHENS SCREEN INDUSTRY BONDS WITH KOREA

12 Oct 10

On October 10, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Film Auckland and Busan Film Commission in relation to their respective Audiovisual Industries. This builds on the Film Co-Production Agreement signed in September 2008 between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea.

"This memorandum highlights the close relationship

On October 10, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Film Auckland and Busan Film Commission in relation to their respective Audiovisual Industries. This builds on the Film Co-Production Agreement signed in September 2008 between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea.

"This memorandum highlights the close relationship that has developed between Auckland and our sister city Busan," comments Auckland City Council international relations manager, Caroline Lassiter. "The Auckland screen industry contributes $2.2 billion to our economy and makes up more than three-quarters of New Zealand's screen industry revenue. We welcome future opportunities to work in partnership with filmmakers from Busan."

"It is encouraging to see this positive initiative put in place to aid filmmakers and offers another avenue for them to explore," says Film Auckland Executive Manager, Michael Brook.

Film Auckland and the Busan Film Commission wish to outline the particulars of their association and plans for future co-operation to explore and develop the many and varied opportunities that exist for collaboration. Their goals include but are not limited to:

1. Strengthening existing co-production relationships and progressing the individual projects to members of either parties film projects in methods of co-producing, as well as the practical elements concerning business structures, pre-production, funding, shooting, casts & crew, post-production, etc.

2. Promoting an active exchange of possible development of industrial information such as finance policy, technological innovation information related to production and screening and joint initiative such as industrial personnel, internships and plans for film education and human resource development in key production areas.

3. Encouraging the circulation of the co-production material or one another's project while at the same time attempt to increase screening opportunities locally and internationally.

4. Developing dialogue between Film Auckland, Busan Film Commission and various production houses and companies, with a view to sharing information about the nature of each countries respective local agency, economic and creative environments and developing strategies to bring ideas to fruition.

5. Building a system of mutual cooperation whereby they agree to support and promote each other's cities and locations including referring enquiries and opportunities to one another when they believe the other cities' locations are more suitable than their own.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding took place at the Busan International Film Commission & Film Industry Showcase (BIFCOM), Asia's premier event for promoting the film business.

Article: The Herald on Sunday

Shanghai International Film Prototype Exhibition

8 Aug 10

8th August The Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, Pete Rive, having just returned to China following APN in Korea, hosted guests at the Shanghai International Film Prototype Exhibition. Sir Richard Taylor helped open the Exhibition which included over 7 tons of Weta Workshop props. Weta Workshop guest list included Pete

8th August The Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, Pete Rive, having just returned to China following APN in Korea, hosted guests at the Shanghai International Film Prototype Exhibition. Sir Richard Taylor helped open the Exhibition which included over 7 tons of Weta Workshop props. Weta Workshop guest list included Pete Rive, Kevin Chow, Vicky Zhu, from Phoenixlands Animation, Kerry Brogan, Film Auckland's Ambassador to China, and Mr Liu from Hengdian Studios. At the dinner that evening important film industry guests were hosted on behalf of Film Auckland, North Shore City, and the New Zealand Consulate General, Mr Mike Swain.  

Film Auckland hosts head of Hengdian Studios, China

10 Jul 10

Following hot on the heels of the Co-Production Treaty signed on Wednesday in China, between New Zealand’s Prime Minister, John Key, and the Chinese Premier, Wen Jiabao, Film Auckland hosted the Head of Hengdian Film Studios, Mr Liu Zhijiang. The Studio is a substantial player in Chinese production and boasts

Following hot on the heels of the Co-Production Treaty signed on Wednesday in China, between New Zealand’s Prime Minister, John Key, and the Chinese Premier, Wen Jiabao, Film Auckland hosted the Head of Hengdian Film Studios, Mr Liu Zhijiang. The Studio is a substantial player in Chinese production and boasts a 1:1 scale set of the very impressive Forbidden City. In addition to infrastructure the Hengdian Studios has creative talent, such as directors, and writers, under contract.

Film Auckland with the support of Waitakere City, and the Mayor Bob Harvey, led a delegation in 2007 that first established relationships with Chinese film officials. The delegation was organised by Waitakere City Council, and Mr Jim He, of the Pacific Culture and Arts Exchange Centre, with support from Film Auckland. It was at that time that Film Auckland realised the enormous potential of co-productions with China and began to lobby the New Zealand government for a Co-production Treaty with China.

Film Auckland has built up close relationships with Chinese producers and film officials supported by the bi-annual New Zealand film festivals in China, and Chinese film festivals in New Zealand. The festivals provide a high level diplomacy with China and have connected the industry with senior Chinese film officials who have appreciated the reciprocal arrangement.

From 2008 – 2009 the Chinese box office grew by a massive 42% and in the first quarter of this year continued to climb again by another 80%. Film Auckland recognises that this massive growth is unmatched anywhere else in the World and is supported by a Chinese government determined to exceed the US box office within a decade or less.

Film Auckland Board member, Pete Rive, and Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey, recently led another delegation to China in June to prepare for the eagerly anticipated Co-production Treaty. Pete Rive said, “This is very exciting for the New Zealand film industry and there are a number of co-production projects already in development. This is precisely the sort of support we need from our government to underpin our existing work for APN, (the Asia Pacific Producer’s Network) that we will host in Auckland in 2011.”

Michael Brook, the Executive Manager of Film Auckland said, “It is great that this visit from Hengdian has come about from the recent trade delegation. We are forging strong links with key industry players in China and they are all genuinely interested in doing business with New Zealand.”

ENDS

Film Auckland markets Auckland as a film production and post-production location to international film and television producers, providing contact with local facilities, services and personnel, as well as facilitating liaison with relevant local body and government organizations and developing industry infrastructure. Established and governed by a board of film industry practitioners, Film Auckland is operated by executive manager Michael Brook.

Film Auckland is sponsored by: Auckland City Council, Waitakere Enterprise, Ernst & Young, Heletranz/Tony Monk Films, Minter Ellison Rudd Watts, Pieter Holl & associates, Onfilm/The Databook, Sony, The Hilton, Digipost, Panavision.

For more information

Michael Brook
Executive Manager – Film Auckland
michael@filmauckland.com
Ph 0275 303 343

Film Auckland welcomes co-production agreement with China

1 Jul 10

Film Auckland is very pleased to hear the news that the film co-production agreement with China has been signed.

In 2007 Film Auckland recognised China as key country for growth for the screen industry and the organisation put in place a strategy for the building of relationships and business

Film Auckland is very pleased to hear the news that the film co-production agreement with China has been signed.

In 2007 Film Auckland recognised China as key country for growth for the screen industry and the organisation put in place a strategy for the building of relationships and business development with China.

Film Auckland has actively supported the development of the co-production agreement and sees it as a key tool for our industry in the generation of film projects between the two countries.

Film Auckland Executive Manager Michael Brook says this is a significant milestone and a positive step forward in New Zealand’s working relationship with China.

In June Film Auckland was part of a screen delegation to China led by the Mayor of Waitakere City, Mayor Bob Harvey, and Film Auckland Board member, Pete Rive. The delegation has been organised by Waitakere City Council, and Mr Jim He, of the Pacific Culture and Arts Exchange Centre, with support from Film Auckland.

Meetings were held with key government and industry groups in China, as well as studios and producers.

In a significant move on the delegation Film Auckland signed a cooperation agreement with the China Film Association, the largest filmmakers organisation in China.

“China’s interest in film is growing at a rapid rate, which gives New Zealand access to a very large and lucrative potential market. Already Chinese producers are actively looking at New Zealand for production partners,” says Mr Brook.

A key component of Film Auckland’s engagement with China will be Auckland and New Zealand hosting the Asia Pacific Producers Network conference in 2011.

The APN is an important group of 80 senior producers from around the Asia Pacific region who meet every year to progress co-operation and co-productions. Many senior Chinese producers are members of the APN.


ENDS

Film Auckland markets Auckland as a film production and post-production location to international film and television producers, providing contact with local facilities, services and personnel, as well as facilitating liaison with relevant local body and government organizations and developing industry infrastructure. Established and governed by a board of film industry practitioners, Film Auckland is operated by executive manager Michael Brook.

Film Auckland is sponsored by: Auckland City Council, Atlab, Waitakere Enterprise, Ernst & Young, Heletranz/Tony Monk Films, Minter Ellison Rudd Watts, Pieter Holl & associates, Onfilm/The Databook, Sony, The Hilton, Digipost, Panavision.

For more information

Michael Brook
Executive Manager – Film Auckland
michael@filmauckland.com

Digipost Shanghai Expo Party

16 Jun 10

June 16th, 2010 Digipost hosted an industry party for friends and clients in the VIP room of the New Zealand Shanghai World Expo Exhibition. Film Auckland were in attendance with their guest John Woo, the legendary director, and Chairman of the Shanghai International Film Festival.

June 16th, 2010 Digipost hosted an industry party for friends and clients in the VIP room of the New Zealand Shanghai World Expo Exhibition. Film Auckland were in attendance with their guest John Woo, the legendary director, and Chairman of the Shanghai International Film Festival.

Shanghai VIP dinner

10 Jun 10

Film Auckland hosted a VIP dinner in Shanghai with the New Zealand Ambassador to China, Mr Carl Worker, and film industry luminaries from China and New Zealand, including Sir Richard Taylor and Jackie Chan's producer Stanley Tong. At the dinner Film Auckland Deputy Chairman, Pete Rive, appointed the American actress,

Film Auckland hosted a VIP dinner in Shanghai with the New Zealand Ambassador to China, Mr Carl Worker, and film industry luminaries from China and New Zealand, including Sir Richard Taylor and Jackie Chan's producer Stanley Tong. At the dinner Film Auckland Deputy Chairman, Pete Rive, appointed the American actress, Kerry Brogan, as Film Auckland's Ambassador to China. Kerry has appeared in over 40 films and TV features in China and speaks fluent Mandarin. Michael Brook the Executive Manager of Film Auckland, and Film Auckland Secretary, Garry Little were also in attendance.

Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Academy Delegation.

8 Jun 10

The Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, led a delegation to visit the Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Academy. Executive Manager Michael Brook and Professor Frances Joseph of AUT University were among the guests of the Deputy Mayor of Qingdao, a sister city to Auckland. The building will be

The Deputy Chairman of Film Auckland, led a delegation to visit the Qingdao Creative Media Institute of the Beijing Academy. Executive Manager Michael Brook and Professor Frances Joseph of AUT University were among the guests of the Deputy Mayor of Qingdao, a sister city to Auckland. The building will be complete in 2011 and first students will be accepted in September 2011. The Institute covers a large area and will eventually enroll 5000 students in animation and 3D.