International Vice Presidency for KJ Jennings

Film Otago Southland Press Release

International Vice Presidency for KJ Jennings

Otago and Southland are continuing to capitalise on the strong relationship that Film Otago Southland has with international film makers, thanks to the work of Executive Manager Kevin (KJ) Jennings.

Mr Jennings has just been elected Vice President of the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI), after serving two terms as a Director on the AFCI Board.

AFCI is the official professional organisation for film commissioners who assist cinema, television and video production throughout the world. Film Otago Southland represents the film industry for the southern half of the South Islands, and is based at the Queenstown Lakes District Council.

When he became a Director in 2013, Mr Jennings was the first New Zealand film commissioner to serve on the international body. He has been working to ensure that the organisation was relevant to its members around the world, and serving their interests effectively.

Mr Jennings said his election as Vice President was a huge boost. “It proves being from a remote region doesn’t mean you can’t play on the world stage. While the responsibility of the role is to the AFCI and it’s members, it also provides a great opportunity to see what is working well amongst our peers internationally.”

The Otago Southland region was now known as a hub of expertise, providing highly skilled crew for international productions, as well as being a sought-after location because of its diversity of settings.

“Slow West”, a drama directed by John Maclean, which has just won the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Festival, was filmed in the region. And the Disney remake of “Pete’s Dragon” will start shooting in Tapanui soon.

“It’s a buoyant time for the film industry here and in NZ,” Mr Jennings said. “Our TV Commercial industry is strong and many local crew are also currently working on some of the big productions in Wellington and Auckland.”

Philip Turner, the Acting Chair of Film Otago Southland, said the relationships Mr Jennings had formed through his activities on the Board of AFCI were vital for the local industry. “We are a global, relationship-based industry. Having KJ contributing and engaging at the highest levels of film commissions worldwide is great for our local regions and that of the New Zealand industry as a whole.

“This appointment provides great opportunities for KJ to not only develop but to share his knowledge of the industry with his peers.”

ENDS

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