Eight N.Z. films in U.S.

Press, 24 February 1986, Page 12

Eight N.Z. films in U.S.

By

JOHN HUTCHISON

in Santa Barbara

New Zealand will have a pervasive influence in this small but important city during a week-end-long promotion at the end of this month. A cluster of events, entertainment, and trade and tourism promotions will be given unusual emphasis with the presentation of eight feature films from New Zealand and the world premier of seven contemporary film dramas grouped under the title, "About Face,” directed by New Zealanders billed here as the nation’s coming young talent One of the eight features has special application here. It is "Newest City on the Globe,” the story of the rebuilding of Napier after the 1931 earthquake, in which Santa Barbara was chosen as the model for the reconstruction.

The New Zealand ConsulateGeneral, Tourist Office, and Trade Commission in Los Angeles have organised around the unique concentration of films three days of other events, to Include a “family fun run” in which Rod Dixon and the New Zealand Ambassador, Sir Wallace Rowling, will participate, a New Zealand pottery and glassware display, and exhibition of New Zealand prints and photos, a Maori performance and the offering of New Zealand foods and beverages on supermarket shelves and restaurant tables. The ambassador will speak at a civic luncheon and present a collection of books to the city library. This 200-year-old seaside city, noted for its Spanish-Mexican heritage and beguiling setting, is ope of the most luxurious on the American west coast. It takes great pride in its 18th-century beginnings, rich museums and lush parks and gardens.

The New Zealand films, besides those mentioned, which will provide the major content for the festival are “Pictures," “Utu,” “The Lost Tribe,” “Patu,” "Other Halves,” "Sylvia,” “The Quiet Earth,” and “Death Warmed Up.”