Winton School rolled out the red carpet last Friday night for their massive movie premiere ‘The Great Sword of Isthgul.’

Final screening is on Wednesday 22nd November at the Invercargill Christian Centre. There will be door sales or get them online
To purchase tickets, watch trailers and buy merchandise (t-shirts, hoodies, posters, collectable cards, go to https://wintonschoolmovie.co.nz

– Advertise on whatsoninvers.nz –

The movie will be available online from next Monday 27 Nov. Details about how to rent or buy will be on the school movie website.

School principal Steve Wadsworth said it has been a massive project and one the whole school was so proud of. All 275 students feature in the movie, which is a primary school version of ‘Lord of the Rings.’

“As we build up to opening night, there is a huge sense of pride. I have been working on this project for the past two and a half years and to now finally see a final product, which I know is going to be well received by all those who see it, is extremely satisfying.”

– Advertise on whatsoninvers.nz –

A two-hour fantasy adventure film featuring elf-like creatures, fairies, trolls, monsters and even troglodytes, making videos with students has been a passion of Steve’s for over 20 years.

“But for this project I wanted to go next level with regard to the quality of the movie. So we’ve been collaborating with a local videographer (Samantha Robertson from Recce NZ) Because she has all the gear, it has meant more of a professional edge to the shots and sound.”

During Term 1 last year Steve had a sabbatical and spent most of his time not only writing the script, but also scouting around the South for filming locations.

– Advertise on whatsoninvers.nz –

“We found some great spots in Southland and Fiordland, including two spots where they filmed Lord of the Rings.”

Each class within the school played different creatures or people from a different land with their own look, different costumes and even sometimes their own language.

The film crew is made up of Steve as director, along with Samantha as director of photography and Mr Hippy Rogers ( the technology teacher) – on sound mixing.

A team of five Year 8 students also helped out with camera assist, sound, the clapper board, note taking and getting some behind the scenes footage.

– Advertise on whatsoninvers.nz –

He said there’s been a lot of logistics involved in terms of the film schedule, costuming, props, and transport.

“So many land owners have allowed us to film on their properties. My wife has designed and made the vast majority of the costumes. My daughter wrote up all the shot lists. Staff at school have helped with some costuming and props and of course have come along on filming days.

“So many people have helped out with things like horses, jet boats when on the river, catering, etc.”

Steve said he knew from the outset they would be able to achieve this feat.

“I am passionate about these sorts of school projects, but it has truly been a real team effort.”

“I am so proud of how the students, staff, wider community and of course the production team have embraced this project. The dedication and attention to detail in so many areas has been absolutely incredible.

“This is something that a very large number of people are going to remember for the rest of their lives. How many children can say they starred in a feature length movie?”

To purchase tickets, watch trailers and buy merchandise (t-shirts, hoodies, posters, collectable cards, go to https://wintonschoolmovie.co.nz

Winton School’s On The Big Screen

Recommended for you