12 May 2005
New Local Drama to Screen on Prime TV
A gritty new local police drama is set to hit New Zealand television screens soon, thanks to funding from NZ On Air and
support from Prime Television.
“Interrogation is a 13 part series from South Pacific Pictures, the makers of Shortland Street, Mercy Peak and Whale
Rider,’ said NZ On Air Chief Executive Jo Tyndall. “It’s an exciting project, and we’re looking forward to seeing it on
screen.
“As the title suggests, Interrogation has as its key theme, the methods police use to get to the truth about the crimes
they are investigating. It’s a stark portrayal of the emotional impact crime has on both its victims, and on the police
personnel trying to find and prosecute those responsible.”
Ms Tyndall said Interrogation would demonstrate the way crimes are investigated, and show that justice can and will be
done, but she said there won’t always be happy endings.
“While the storylines we have seen show that Interrogation will give a clear picture of how crimes are solved, we still
have to accept that at times, because of the vagaries of the legal system, we may not see the result we hope for.
“This is compelling drama, based on actual police techniques and legal principles. The writing is sharp and fast-paced,
and the production style will result in an exciting, gripping series, with some twists and surprises thrown in,” she
said.
Interrogation will screen on Prime TV, adding to the mix of locally produced programmes featuring on the channel.
“Prime TV management have clearly signalled their commitment to screening New Zealand programmes in the past year with
the launch of the Paul Holmes current affairs programme, and there are a couple of other programmes with NZ On Air
funding, in the works,” Ms Tyndall said.
“Prime has also recently joined the Television Local Content Group, and agreed to aim for 5.5% of its 2005 schedule
being locally produced. We are pleased to have another free-to-air broadcast outlet for New Zealand programmes,” she
said, “and look forward to Prime’s success in achieving that target.”
ENDS