Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures have inked a deal with the New Zealand Film Commission and Tourism New Zealand.
Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Pictures have begun production for Ghost in the Shell starring Scarlett Johansson. Directed by Rupert Sanders and based on the Kodansha Comics manga series written by Masamune Shirow, the film is shooting in Wellington, New Zealand, with its release set for 31 March 2017.
Meanwhile, both brands have inked a marketing partnership with the New Zealand Film Commission, Tourism New Zealand, Callaghan Innovation, and the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment. The deal recognises the significant economic, cultural, and industry development benefits the production will bring to New Zealand.
Said collaboration promotes the country’s growing screen industry, develops talent, and showcases the destination to the rest of the world. “The production will broaden the perceptions of the diversity of the nation’s locations by showcasing a science fiction urban setting in New Zealand,” said Dave Gibson, Chief Executive at NZFC.
Based on the internationally-acclaimed Japanese sci-fi property, the film follows the major, a special ops human-cyborg hybrid, who leads the elite task force Section 9. Sworn to eliminating dangerous criminals, the force is faced with an enemy whose singular goal is to wipe out Hanka Robotic’s advancements in cyber technology.
“We are thrilled to be working with Paramount Pictures for the first time. Film tourism is an important element in our work to inspire people to visit New Zealand. We look forward to this new opportunity to showcase the country to the rest of the world,” said Kevin Bowler, Chief Executive at Tourism New Zealand.
