(PR.co.nz) “All my encouragement, applause and support for Film Raro” says Hollywood star Sam Neil.
Film Raro a social and economic development project for the Cook Islands aims to focus the attention of the world’s filmmakers to this tiny south pacific paradise during its May 2013 film challenge.
The Film Raro concept has begun the search for teams of international filmmakers to be flown to the Cook Islands. Here they’ll be challenged to work with locals to make up to eight short films in just seven days for a gala public screening and eventual international release. Entries to the competition are still being accepted with the first teams to be announced this month.
Ms Owen sees the Film Raro concept as a great learning experience for locals who will work as cast and crew along side teams of professional filmmakers from around the globe.
“I whole heartedly support and salute the visionary pioneers behind the awesome Film Raro concept. It’s a venture that will provide the opportunity for locals to eventually tell their own stories on film.” says Ms Owen.
Not only will the event benefit local learning, but it is also expected to produce millions of dollars worth of worldwide publicity to add a huge boost to Cook Islands tourism destination exposure.
Film Raro Executive Producer Stan Wolfgramm says “It’s all part of our plans to brand the Cook Islands the film friendliest tropical paradise in the world – COOKIWOOD. To bring a new industry to the Island, new skills, employment, engage youth, boost tourism etc but its going to take time and much support. So it’s very satisfying to have the endorsements of our renowned film colleagues Sam, Rena and Cliff.”
Mr Wolfgramm goes on to say our advantage lies in partnering with New Zealand’s $3.2billion film and television industry, their skills and their international standing. He wishes to use his award winning media company, Drum Productions reputation in New Zealand to foster ties and is presently in talks toward a relationship between Film Raro the Cook Island Govt and Film NZ. Watch this space.
Cliff Curtis sums up with a fitting statement “An awesome opportunity to gather together as a community to share our stories, discover new talent and create great cinema and all on a tropical island paradise – Kia Kaha Film Raro.”
The inaugural Film Raro event is scheduled for May 2013.
Film Raro is still taking entries at www.filmraro.com
Media Release on 18 October 2012 from Drum Productions
Media Contact:
Julie Smith, Drum Productions
Email: juls@drumproductions.co.nz
Website: www.drumproductions.co.nz
Phone: +64 21 666 060