Winton School has been overwhelmed with the response from the public to its new movie, and so far more than 1200 people have turned out to the Invercargill Christian Centre to watch it.
Principal Steve Wadsworth said 350 people enjoyed the premiere opening of ‘The Great Sword of Isthgul’ last Friday night, where they rolled out the red carpet, with the main cast and film crew arriving in a limousine.
“The film certainly has been well received with many also commenting on the amazing scenery, drone shots, story line and standard of acting, in particular Tessa Riley (Omolara), Kaydin White (Odion), Poppy White (Naamah), Couper Spencer (Shrey) and Tahi Payne (Thesauros).”
Steve said the Invercargill Christian Centre has been amazing to work with, “so welcoming, helpful and friendly.”
He said the talents of the following people also need to mentioned – Samantha Robertson (from Recce NZ) Director of Photography and Editor, Helen Wadsworth – Costume Design, Billy Edwards – Music (he wrote original songs and the score for the movie), Kendra Wadsworth – Shot Lists and edit assist, Ian (Mr Hippy) Rogers – Sound / props, Film Crew (Spencer Jenkins, Tahi Payne, Addy Campbell, Dharma Fairhurst and Riley Scobie).
“My hope is that whether it is in front of the camera of behind the camera, some of our talented students pursue film making at college and beyond,” he said.
This week and next week local schools have and will be coming along to the Winton school hall/ movie theatre to watch special screenings. He said if other schools would like to do the same, just get in touch with them to arrange.
The movie will also be available to buy or rent online from Monday 27 November, with details on the school movie website https://wintonschoolmovie.co.nz
“I am just so proud of the collaborative effort that was needed to bring the story alive. This is certainly a unique project that everyone who was involved in is going to remember for a very long time.”