25 March 2002 Media Statement
Oscar Success A Tribute To New Zealand’s Creativity
Oscar successes for The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring and Shrek are a tribute to New Zealand’s creativity in
the film industry, says Associate Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister, Judith Tizard.
The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring won Academy Awards for Cinema Photography, Makeup, Visual Effects and
Original Score, while Shrek, directed by Andrew Adamson, won for Animated Film.
“We’re all enormously proud of WETA Workshop directors Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger, of Peter Jackson and of everyone
who worked on Fellowship of the Ring,” says Judith Tizard.
“WETA Workshop’s contribution to the film included making every single item in Middle-earth from scratch. Richard
Taylor’s two Oscars are testament to the talent and partnerships Peter Jackson has nurtured during the making of the
trilogy, and to the remarkable ability of WETA Workshop to rise to the challenge of these films.
“Andrew Adamson has also come under Peter’s wing during his career, and we can all be proud of his part in making Oscar
history with the first ever award for best animated film.
“Being nominated is always a huge honour in itself, and with two films to come, I’m sure there will be many more
opportunities for New Zealand to impress the world with our creative talents.”
Ends