Actor endorses NZ movie-making green scheme
22 Aug 2008
Sustainable film making in New Zealand has received a major endorsement from one of the big names in the movie industry.
Actor Hugh Jackman, who was in Queenstown earlier this year to film the new X-Men movie ‘Wolverine’, has spoken out about how proud he and the movie’s cast and crew were to be part of an initiative to reduce waste during their production.
Green screen guide
The Queenstown Lakes District Council, in association with Film Queenstown, came up with the idea to reduce the impact of movie production waste on their region. It was so successful that they’ve launched a 'Green Screen Guide and Directory' tailor-made for the region and reflecting the national industry's 'green screen' philosophy.
Jackman said it was great to be a part of a project that benefited the local economy while looking after the environment. "The cast and crew really got behind this initiative, and we are proud to be a part of the new generation of sustainable filmmakers," he said.
As a result of on-site auditing and consulting, the Wolverine production managed to divert 92% of its 670 tonnes created from landfills; saving almost $55,000 in the process.
Future recycling
All future film projects in the region will be provided the ‘Green Screen Guide’ with detailed information on how to recycle in the various departments of a film production - from art and construction to special effects.
Film Queenstown manager Kevin Jennings said the key appeal of shooting international movies in the region was the pristine environment and the new guide was a first class insurance policy to keep it that way.
"Wolverine was enthusiastic to be involved in this initiative and the results were outstanding. The outcome is you can watch the new movie in the knowledge that it comes with a significantly reduced carbon footprint," he said.
Wolverine will be back
Wolverine’s producers have said they are keen to return to Queenstown for future productions.
"It's great to see the Queenstown region supporting the ‘Green Screen’ initiative; we will definitely look at shooting there again," said Wolverine producer John Palermo.
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