FILM VERSION OF “THE SEEKERS”

Press, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 27074, 24 June 1953, Page 6

FILM VERSION OF “THE SEEKERS”

WORK IN N.Z. MAY BEGIN IN NOVEMBER

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, June 23. The J.' Arthur Rank Organisation will probably begin work on the film version of John Guthrie’s book “The Seekers” in November. The film will be- made in colour in the North Island, and local actors, principally Maoris, will be recruited for the smaller parts. The producer of the film, Mr George H. Brown, and Mr William E. C. Fairchild who wrote the script, arrived bv air today to carry out preliminary work. After discussions in Auckland with Mr R. J. Kerridge they will spend three weeks in the country seeking talent and looking for a suitable location for the making of the film. The visit will give Mr Fairchild an opportunity to relate his script to “the geographical facts.” Mr Fairchild said that actors for the five main parts of the film had not yet been chosen. They would probably be brought to New Zealand from Britain, and the six men needed for smaller parts would be recruited locally. In addition many Maoris would be needed as film extras. Inia Te Wiata, the noted bass singer, who was very highly regarded in London, had given him introductions to a number of Maoris who might be suitable for the smaller roles. “If they are all as good as Inia,” said Mr Fairchild, ”we will have no difficulty at all in getting the players we want.’