17 September 2009
MEDIA RELEASE
Environmental Film Festival Opens In Wellington
25 documentary films and animations from New Zealand and around the world will screen in Wellington from 1 -15 October
as part of the 2009 Reel Earth Environmental Film Festival.
The films feature hard hitting social justice and breath-taking natural beauty. They tackle some of the biggest
environmental issues that face us today, including the effects of our changing climate, managing our precious water
resources, and the impact of over-fishing.
The Wellington season of the festival is hosted by the Wellington Branch of Forest and Bird.
‘This year’s films are all of a really high standard, said Vicki Connor, Forest and Bird branch member and organiser of
the Wellington Festival. ‘They are dealing with some pretty serious issues, but they do it in a way that is engaging and
entertaining.
‘So many people care deeply about the planet and want to find out more about the challenges we are facing. These films
are such a great way to do this – they present the facts from different and interesting perspectives. They tell the
stories of the people who are out there right now, working at the very heart of these issues. ‘
The budget of these independent films has dramatically increased this year, topping $50 million, with a corresponding
increase in quality. Heading the big budget titles is the $10M Wild Oceans, shot on large format off the wild southern
coast of West Africa.
Another high profile title is Sundance nominee Crude, the latest offering from award-winning director Joe Berlinger,
taking the viewer front and centre in the high-stakes chase to bring big oil companies to justice in the Amazon
rainforests.
A number of films have strong connection with New Zealand including the epic new adventure of Tara, formerly Sir Peter
Blake's ship, in Journey to the Heart of the Climate Machine.
The Wellington Season will open with Best Feature Film winner So Right, So Smart, a slick movie telling the story of one
man’s quest to turn his carpet making company into a truly sustainable business.
Some of the films feature guest speakers – details are below.
The Wellington season is sponsored by print company Graphic Press. All films are at The Paramount, Wellington. Tickets
for some screenings are limited. We recommend booking in advance by calling The Paramount on 04 384 4080
For more information visit www.reelearth.govt.nz
Photographs available
ENDS