A slice of life from the 1960s

18 July 2007

A slice of life from the 1960s

The award winning and remastered film This is New Zealand is being screened in cinemas throughout New Zealand as part of the 2007 New Zealand International Film Festivals, Dianne Macaskill, Chief Executive of Archives New Zealand, said today.

“This restored national treasure shot in the late 1960s showcased New Zealand and let the world see the dramatic landscape of our country, our resources and products, and showed ordinary kiwis at work and play,” Dianne Macaskill said.

“Made for three screens This is New Zealand was produced by the National Film Unit for the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, in 1970.

“The original film has been unavailable for public screening because three inter-locked projectors were required to show the three screen format.

“With advances in digital technology Archives New Zealand commissioned Park Road Post to restore the film so many more people can see and enjoy this gem that showcases New Zealand and captures the lives of people from the late 1960s.

“An archive is not about just preserving and making accessible stand alone items, but it is also about providing information that allows the item to be understood in the context of time.

“Work on the remastered film was overseen by Archives New Zealand Senior Adviser, Audio Visual Records Dave Smith in consultation with Hugh Macdonald the original director and Kit Rollings, the original sound mixer. “

Dianne Macaskill said This is New Zealand is screening with This is Expo a film also made by Hugh Macdonald about Expo ’70 and C’mon to New Zealand – a promotional advertorial aimed at the Australian market.

“This is a great opportunity to see this unique film on wide screen with surround sound.”

For screening details check out the film festival website at:
http://www.nzff.telecom.co.nz/

ENDS

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