New Zealand's got screen-writing talent

18 February 2014

A major search begins this week for New Zealand's undiscovered writing talent.

Big Break is a new initiative launched by film company Libertine Pictures. It's an open invitation to all writers to pitch their great movie ideas and writing talent, and a rare opportunity for unknown writers to get their ideas into development and made into films.

"We're looking for the writer of New Zealand's next great movie," says Libertine Pictures joint managing director Richard Fletcher.

"We want to hear from any writer who thinks they could write that movie, whatever their experience or whatever kind of story they want to tell. If we think their film idea has potential, we'll develop their script with them, with a view to putting it into production."

Libertine Pictures was formed last year by internationally-experienced film-makers, with backing from the New Zealand Film Commission, to produce feature film and television for audiences here and internationally.

Big Break asks writers to submit a film idea, with a synopsis and sample pages of script.

"It's a tremendous opportunity for talented new writers to get a break," says Richard Fletcher.

"New Zealand has a wealth of writing talent -- the many outstanding New Zealand films to date are proof of that.

"Some of New Zealand's great script writers are already writing but are yet to be discovered; for one reason or another they have not yet had the break they need. We want to find those writers and make some great films.

Richard Fletcher says Libertine Pictures has films in development with established writers, and hopes other writers with film credits will take part in Big Break also.

"But we do think there's an untapped pool of talent out there and hope we'll get to see some of that with this open call.

"We're looking for any writer with a passion for storytelling and a story they want to tell in the next great New Zealand movie. We're looking forward to seeing a range of genres and styles -- from thriller to romantic comedy, adventure to drama, or even something we've never seen before. "

ENDS

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