NZ Filmmakers Celebrate IP Day - Movies: A Global Passion

NZ’s Next Generation of Filmmakers Celebrate World IP Day - Movies: a Global Passion

Wellington, 29 April 2014 – On April 29, film students attending the New Zealand Film School, the largest of its kind in New Zealand, celebrated World IP Day, this year themed Movies: A Global Passion.

Leading film industry experts shared their thoughts and knowledge on the value of the creative process, and the talent, time and energy that goes into producing quality film and television in New Zealand.

The industry has developed a worldwide reputation for producing some of the most high-profile and well-loved films, and has garnered the respect of the international film community for its crews and creative department heads – cinematographers, production designers, and art department directors.

The speakers acknowledged the vast wealth of knowledge and talent in New Zealand’s film and television sector, and argued that this valuable intellectual property should be respected, promoted and protected. The value chain, said the speakers, extends beyond the actual production of content and incorporates the exhibition, digital distribution and marketing of quality films and television shows.

Andrew Cornwell, General Manager, Sony Pictures, gave a distributor’s overview of the multiple platforms through which viewers can now access films and TV programs. There are currently over 400 distribution platforms worldwide. “We are able to offer films and TV shows over such varied devices as mobile phones, computers, note pads, and home entertainment systems. The New Zealand consumer has never had such a wide range of opportunities to watch their favourite movies. Our challenge is to continue to expand the array of choices possible whilst protecting our intellectual property.”

Tony Eaton, MD, New Zealand Screen Association (NZSA) told the students about his experience in promoting the film industry in New Zealand, including protecting copyright for rights holders. “I am especially pleased to be working with young and up-coming filmmakers; I am passionate about our local film industry and the NZSA is committed to assisting, supporting, and mentoring our promising talent.”

Sashi Meanger, Executive Director of the New Zealand Film School, acknowledged how important it was for the community to understand the value of the creative industries, and expressed appreciation for the opportunity this event gave the film students to learn more about the value of their ideas and skills: “It’s great to partner with industry stake holders to promote World IP Day and offer our students an insight into the entire digital content eco-system, which provides quality jobs for many Kiwis, and helps to provide audiences with terrific, world-class films and TV shows on multiple devices and in many forms.”

About the New Zealand Screen Association
Promoting and protecting the screen community in New Zealand

NZSA works closely with its members, government agencies, and enforcement authorities to promote and protect the New Zealand film and television industry, retailers, and movie fans.

The PwC Economic Contribution Report of 2012 underlines just how significant the film and television industries are to the NZ economy:
• The NZ film and television industry contributes a total of $2.78 billion to the NZ economy.
• The total employment created in New Zealand as a result of the film and television industry activity is 21,633 full time equivalent positions.

www.screenassociation.co.nz

ENDS

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