Peter Jackson to review Film Commission

Minister of Culture and Heritage Chris Finlayson has recruited world-renowned New Zealand film director Peter Jackson to lead the upcoming review of the Film Commission.

Mr Jackson is known internationally for his Lord of the Rings trilogy, which won him best picture and best director along a cavalcade of other awards. He is currently working on an adaptation of Alice Sebold’s book, The Lovely Bones.

He is best known in New Zealand for films like Heavenly Creatures, and B-grade splatterfest Braindead and black comedy Meet the Feebles.

The Film Commission provides funding for local film to the tune of $10 million annually, or around four to five films, a spokesman says.

It's total budget for 2008-2009 is $21.5 million, one third from government coffers, the rest from Lotteries and other sources.

The review is expected to cost in the $10,000s and look at every facet of the Commission’s behaviour.

It has drawn industry criticism in the past for being a closed shop, with unwieldy rules and executive interference.

The Commission plays a part in every stage of the industry from funding start-up productions to helping market and distribute the end product. The review will determine how the Commission has been performing in each of these mandated areas, and whether it has been providing the best value to industry.

“National promised a review of the New Zealand Film Commission during last year’s election campaign,” Mr Finlayson said.

“The act was passed over 30 years ago, and during that time the face of the local film industry has changed dramatically. It has been one of New Zealand’s highest profile successes of the last 15 years. This review will ensure it is receiving the support needed to continue that growth.”

It is unknown as of yet what the ministry will be paying Mr Jackson, who regularly demands millions (and portions of profit margins) for his work. (updated: Mr Jackson has confirmed he will work for free)

NBR understands the pair met at a function two months ago and Mr Jackson was very receptive to the minister's suggestions.

The specifics of the job is still under negotiation, but Mr Jackson has quite an interest in the process and is keen to help revamp the local industry.

“The NZ Film Commission is a vital and indispensable component of our film industry,” Mr Jackson said.

“I'm looking forward to making positive and constructive suggestions to ensure that it remains effective in what is a rapidly changing international movie climate.”

David Court, Head of Screen Business at the Australian Film, Television & Radio School, will work with Peter Jackson to examine the Commission’s legislation and the constitution, function, powers and financial provisions it provides.

“David and I intend to consult with many local filmmakers, so the review reflects the thoughts and opinions of the writers, producers and directors the Film Commission was created to support,” Mr Jackson says.