Hobbiton, Tourist Attraction

The Hobbiton set, nearly completion for when production begins filming in Febuary, is apparently be built with extra robustness as it will become a permanent tourist attraction for New Zealand.

Brett Hodge, owner of Matamata Post and Rails, which has supplied the timber for The Hobbit duology since construction began in February, told the Waikato Times that Sir Peter Jackson's company Three Foot Six was building the home of the Hobbits to last.

"What they did last time was build a temporary set, but now it's a permanent set," said Mr Hodge, whose business also supplied the timber for the temporary The Lord of the Rings trilogy Hobbiton set.

"It's just so right for us to do it, it's just so good for the community," Mr Hodge said. "When you look at the current economic times a lot of people are just fighting for every dollar. Something like this is just the icing on the cake," he said. "It might be time to invest in a Robert Harris cafe in Matamata."

Hobbit Bills Passes NZ Parliament

New Zealand Parliament successfully passed 66 to 50 the so called "Hobbit Bill" that was one of the conditions that Warner Bros demanded when it agreed to keep production in New Zealand.

During the debate, Labour's David Parker accused the government of playing a "political game". I don't even think Warner Brothers demanded this. There wasn't a problem to be fixed, there have been no problems in the film industry for the last five years," he said.

Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson says the security of workers in the film industry and The Hobbit in New Zealand has been secured with the passing of the bill. "It clarifies what is already widespread industry practice - that actors, crew members and other production personnel in the film industry who sign on as independent contractors are just that, independent contractors. If they sign on as an employee, they are an employee."

Peter Jackson Says Thanks for Hobbit Resolution

Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh released a statement via Wingnut Films about The Hobbit remaining in New Zealand. He expressed gratitude that everyone was able to work together and reach a solution and the support of the actors, fans and crew who supported the move to keep the film in the country. On a somewhat related note, click here to view a helicopter view of the re-construction of the Hobbiton set in New Zealand. I think the set is mostly done so the footage is probably from a month or so ago.

Filmmakers, Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh stated today “We are grateful to the Government for introducing legislation which shall give everyone in the film industry certainty as to their employment status. This clarification will provide much needed stability and reassurance for film workers as well as investors from within New Zealand and overseas.”

Jackson went on to thank Warner Brothers and New Line Cinema for their continued commitment to New Zealand. “Their respect for the skill and talent of Kiwi crews and performers speaks for itself.”

Finally, Jackson stated, “I feel enormous gratitude to the film technicians, actors and fans who came out in support of making these films in New Zealand. To the thousands of people who took the time to write and let us know they were with us – thank you. It made all the difference.”

Taylor Says Thanks for Support

Sir Richard Taylor, creative director of WETA, released a statement thanking the New Zealand and others for their support in keeping The Hobbit in New Zealand.

On behalf of all our friends and colleagues at Weta Workshop, we send our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of the people from around New Zealand and the world who have sent us their messages of support.

Everyone here has tried to stay optimistic for a positive outcome but in the darkest days of the past week it has been the amazing support from the fans of LOTR and our family and friends which has given us the resolve to stay cheerful and positive about the outcome for these films.

It is a fantastic result reported tonight by our Prime Minister, the Honourable John Key, and we are grateful for the support of our Government in recognising the challenges our film industry was facing.

We are also very pleased that Warner Bros are happy to continue to see these films made in New Zealand – and thank them for their efforts.

Most importantly our thanks go out to Peter, Fran and Philippa, for their unrelenting efforts to see these films made in our country. We are very lucky to work with such passionate film makers.

All our best and cheers to you all.

Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger

The Hobbit Staying in New Zealand

A day after New Zealand Prime Minister John Key expressed doubts that the government could meet some of Warner Bros. demands to keep The Hobbit production in the country, he was able to close the deal. The Hollywood Reporter says that after some major concessions, including legislative, both Hobbit films will remain in the country.

The government gave around an additional $25 million in tax incentives to the studio along with a promise to introduce legislation that would more clearly define actors as contract employees and therefore out of the reach of unions. It is unknown if the deal includes a guarantee of passage. In return, besides keeping the films, New Zealand created a "long-term strategic partnership" with the studio to promote the country as a destination for film production and tourism. In addition The Hobbit will get to host the world premiere of one of the two films.

Over all, it sounds like for Warner Bros. simply offset the fall of the value of the American dollar which went from 55 per to 75 per compared to the New Zealand currency when pre-production first started. For New Zealand, this means their film and tourism industry will not only survive but might get a boost, especially once the films come out. It was already estimated the production of the films was going to pump $1.5 billion into the country’s economy. Really the losers in all this will be New Zealand Actors Equity who walked into this as a complete unknown union by even the local citizens and now has become infamous. If the legislation passes and considering their tiny size I doubt the group will exist much longer after that. An irony considering their hard earned seat at the negotiating table, something unlikely to have occurred if they had not used The Hobbit as a pawn.

With this final piece of news, the deck is now almost cleared for The Hobbit to begin production as scheduled in February. There is one final sticking point that I am not sure has been addressed. The blacklist has not been lifted by UK's British Actor Equity and Australia's union. The MEAA not lifting it is mostly irrelevant but a shame for any Australians wanting roles but much of the recently announced lead cast come from the United Kingdom so that blacklist could still present a problem. Hopefully once this new development is digested that will be taken care of on its own.

Congratulations to New Zealand on the hard earned victory and much success to The Hobbit cast and crew.

Warner Bros. Ask for More

What started as a bid for more money and requiring the joining of the union for New Zealand Actors Equity is now potentially ending much the same, only now with a demand of more money from Warner Bros. In an effort to take advantage of New Zealand's movie industry's now suddenly very weakened movie industry and the many offers of tax incentives from the United Kingdom and Ireland, the studio has asked the NZ government to sweeten their own deal before considering leaving The Hobbit production in the country. From NZ Stuff:

After emerging from a two-hour meeting with Warner Brothers executives this evening, Mr Key confirmed industrial relations law changes and bigger financial incentives were the two issues under consideration by the studio as it weighed up whether to shoot the two Hobbit movies here or offshore.

"If we could make the deal sweeter for them that would help; that's something we would consider… but we can't bridge the gap that is potentially on offer from other locations around the world. We're not prepared to do that and… I don't think the New Zealand taxpayer would want us to do that," Mr. Key said.

The Hobbit Boycott Interview

TVNZ.com has posted a transcript and video of the exchange between Helen Kelly and John Barnett regarding the controversy surrounding The Hobbit actor boycott. Helen Kelly, president of the Council of Trade Unions, has become the public face of the boycott that New Zealand Actors Equity (NZAE) started. John Barnett is a managing director of South Pacific Picture and part of the film industry for over 35 years.

The main part of the exchange I found interesting is for the first time, the tiny size of NZAE was discussed, even if briefly. Barnett puts the number at around 135 and Kelly said no it was "over 600." Considering there are thousands of actors in the country, it pretty much proves without a doubt that NZAE does not represent an entire job class, but they have successfully sold that viewpoint to the world. Another aspect is Kelly takes credit for ending the boycott by following the advice of Peter Jackson of initiating a meeting with SPADA (guild of producers). What she failed to note was this was supposed to be the first step of the process with a boycott being the last. It is hard to quote choice sections so click here to read or watch the back and forth debate.

Make no mistake, NZEA's actions were not on behalf of all actors in the country. They were on behalf of themselves and their 135-600ish members only. If the Hobbit had unionized as NZEA demanded, that means only union members could be hired to perform speaking roles on the film. By default then actors would have to join the union or not get a role. This in turn would have then given NZEA the leverage to force other productions to go union (or force SPADA to revise "the Pink Book" to their specifications), in turn growing their numbers even more. With the Hobbit as a huge stepping stone, NZEA would have easily become the New Zealand equivalent of the Screen Actors Guild where all actors in the country would by necessity have to join the union if they wanted continued acting employment beyond a set extra.

The irony of the situation is while NZEA used The Hobbit and overseas actor unions to achieve their goals they in turn used the situation to their own potential gain. The current top two contenders of the relocation are New England and Australia. The only two major actor unions that have not revoked their blacklist of the Hobbit - UK's British Actors' Equity and Australia's MEAA. Even more ironic they claim the studio was trying to screw them but it is estimated that the tax benefits that UK and Australia are offering could ultimately save the production around $20 million if they move. If things shake out that way, NZEA loses and so do all the actors they claim to represent.

This turning of the tables would be hilarious if the consequences of their poorly thought out actions were not so dire. For all intents and purposes, so goes The Hobbit, so goes New Zealand's film industry and all the jobs and revenue that goes with it. It is truly tragic that a group of 135-600 members was able to potentially cripple an entire country's industry.

New Zealand Rallies Around The Hobbit

In a quest to keep The Hobbit in New Zealand citizens took to the streets to show their love for the Lord of the Rings. Considering the various rallies were planned on a few days in advance, the turnout from the various reports seems quite good. A sticking point remains the issue of the Australian MEAA (the main union that NZ Equity is part of) and the UK Actor Unions (which most of the recently announced cast are likely members of) have yet to revoke their blacklist of The Hobbit indicates that both countries feel they are still in the running for the re-location of the films. Below are links and videos of some of the coverage. Whether or not this has any impact on Warner Bros. executives who are currently in the country remains to be seen.

Links: The Guardian | Wellington Report I | Wellington Report II | Robert Catto Gallery | Wellington Report III | NZ Herald | BBC
Videos: One News (also below) | Channel 4 | Wellington Rally

Of note in the New One report is a reoccurrence of the talking point from NZAE members that the boycott was about being allowed to meet with their employer, what is wrong with that? Small problem is no actors had yet to be hired, so it would be like you getting a bunch of your friends to boycott Google, just in case you might get hired there. Since the press continues to avoid it, it must be noted that NZAE only represented a tiny fraction of the actors in the country so despite their claims, they are not the voice of an entire job class. However, that job class did fail to speak against the union, which can be read as approving the blacklist.

McCoy Cast in The Hobbit

This weekend fans at the Armageddon Expo in Auckland, NZ were the first to learn that Sylvester McCoy, the seventh Dr. Who, has been cast in The Hobbit as Radagast the Brown. While a contract has not yet been signed, likely waiting to see if Warner Bros. will be about moving the production, the role is his if he wants it. McCoy had previously been rumored to be up for the role of Bilbo Baggins.

Sometime over the next few days, WB is supposed to announce whether the movies stays or moves but the failure to explain how NZ Actor Equity, a group of only 200 members, managed to paralyze an entire country's film industry has yet to be addressed leading to real and hard to budge concerns on whether a repeat of the boycott will not occur later into the production schedule. Once this issue is settled, for good or bad for NZ, then things like casting will probably be finalized with signed contracts.

New Zealand Rallying Around The Hobbit

Due to the recent worldwide actors boycott that was somehow initiated by the only 200 member strong NZ Actors Equity group, it seems Warner Bros. is on the verge of moving the production to the United Kingdom. Monday, ironically the countries Labor Day, is apparently when the decision may likely be made. The tourism and revenue generated by the Hobbit was expected to reach an estimated $1.5 billion along with thousands of jobs so the stakes are very high.

Government officials, Peter Jackson and more seem to be throwing their final sales pitches to keep production in the country and now the citizens are (finally) getting involved with rallies planned in cities around the country. It is truly amazing that a group of only around 200 members managed to potentially cost a country of 4 million this kind of economic stimulus. Not sure why the press is ignoring this aspect of the story. Below is a commercial for the rally along with a Facebook page for it. A YouTube page has also been created so fans can express their belief on keeping the production in New Zealand. Details on that can be found here. Thanks to Winton for the heads-up.

Cast for The Hobbit Lead Roles Announced

Warner Bros and Peter Jackson have issued a press release that officially announces some of the lead castmembers for The Hobbit, specficially Bilbo Baggins and the Company of Dwarves.

It seems the schedule conflict with Sherlock has been sorted as Martin Freeman has scored the role of Bilbo Baggins, something that has been rumored for a while now and probably the result of the shooting start date being delayed to February. The press release is below but here is the summary of the casting, hit the links for their imdb.com profile.

Martin Freeman - Bilbo Baggins
Richard Armitage - Thorin Oakenshield (Dwarf), leader of the Company of Dwarves
Rob Kazinsky - Kili
Aidan Turner - Fili
Graham McTavish - Dwalin
John Callen - Oin
Stephen Hunter - Bombur
Mark Hadlow - Dori
Peter Hambleton - Gloin

There are still more roles to be cast. Both Ian McKellan (Gandalf) and Andy Serkis (Gollum) have both verbally said they are willing to reprise their roles. Currently casting rumors have Stephen Fry, Bill Nighy (as voice of Smaug the Dragon), Jimmy Nesbitt, Aiden Turner (as Elf King) and David Tennant also in contention for various roles.

The press release:

Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Rob Kazinsky, Aidan Turner, Graham McTavish, John Callen, Stephen Hunter, Mark Hadlow and Peter Hambleton have joined the ensemble cast of the The Hobbit, it was jointly announced today by Toby Emmerich, President and Chief Operating Officer, New Line Cinema; Alan Horn, President and Chief Operating Officer, Warner Bros.; Steve Cooper, co-Chief Executive Officer of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., and Peter Jackson.

Since The Hobbit films received a green light on October 15, pre-production has been in full swing. Set for release in December, 2012 and December, 2013, we can confirm that Martin Freeman (The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, Hot Fuzz) will play Bilbo Baggins, the hero of the story. Richard Armitage (UK TV's MI-5 and soon to appear in Captain America: The First Avenger) is set to play Thorin Oakenshield, the leader of the Company of Dwarves which sets off to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from a thieving dragon.

"Despite the various rumours and speculation surrounding this role, there has only ever been one Bilbo Baggins for us,” says Peter Jackson. “There are a few times in your career when you come across an actor who you know was born to play a role, but that was the case as soon as I met Martin. He is intelligent, funny, surprising and brave - exactly like Bilbo and I feel incredibly proud to be able to announce that he is our Hobbit.”

He adds “Richard is one of the most exciting and dynamic actors working on screen today and we know he is going to make an amazing Thorin Oakensheild. We cannot wait to start this adventure with him and feel very lucky that one of the most beloved characters in Middle-earth is in such good hands."

Rounding out the Company of Dwarves are Aidan Turner (TV's Being Human) and Rob Kazinsky (TVs EastEnders) who play Kili and Fili, respectively. Jackson comments "Rob is an extremely talented young actor with a huge career in front of him, I'm thrilled that he has agreed to take on the role of Fili. Besides his talent as an actor, Rob is also a champion sword fighter; I'm looking forward to seeing the damage he can do to a horde of marauding Goblins!" He continues, "Adian is a wonderfully gifted young actor who hails from Ireland. I'm sure he will bring enormous heart and humor to the role of Kili."

The remaining dwarves will be played by Graham McTavish (Secretariat and TV's 24) as Dwalin; John Callen (TV's Power Rangers Jungle Fury) as Oin; Stephen Hunter (TV's All Saints) as Bombur; Mark Hadlow (King Kong) as Dori; and Peter Hambleton (TV's The Strip) as Gloin.

Jackson notes, "Graham is a terrific actor, with a great depth of experience, which I know he will bring to the role of "Dwalin. I have worked with Mark Hadlow on many projects; he is a fantastic actor. I am thrilled to be working with both of them on these movies. He adds, "I am also proud to announce the casting of New Zealand actors as Peter Hambleton, John Callen and Stephen Hunter. Fran and I know that they will bring great depth and talent to our Company of Dwarves."

The two The Hobbit films are being co-produced by New Line Cinema and MGM, with New Line managing production, Warner Bros. Pictures handling domestic distribution and MGM distributing internationally. Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Carolynne Cunningham are producing the films, with Phillipa Boyens serving as co-producer and Ken Kamins as executive producer.

The Oscar-winning, critically acclaimed LOTR trilogy, also from the production team of Jackson, Walsh and Cunningham, grossed nearly $3 billion worldwide at the box office. In 2003, Return of the King swept the Academy Awards, winning all of the 11 categories in which it was nominated, including Best Picture -- the first-ever Best Picture win for a fantasy film. The trilogy's production was also unprecedented at the time.

Jackson Hits New Zealand Airwaves

The Hobbit Director Peter Jackson took to the New Zealand airwaves to discuss the current situation between The Hobbit production and NZ film industry. Thanks to the actor boycott led by NZ Actor Equity, a union whose total membership is essentially a rounding error compared with the total number of actors in the country, it seems that Warner Bros is concerned enough about future boycott and disruptions that they will likely still move the production to the UK. The boycott was lifted but at this point the various organizations that supported this rounding error union are in full save face mode, further complicating things and eroding confidence that a repeat incident will not occur. Jackson took to the New Zealand airwaves to discuss the situation and try to get the New Zealand government to take the repercussions seriously so can help talk WB off the ledge.

Of note of the two interviews is where they take place, essentially proving by the creative choices for the interviews that production was entrenched and fully prepared to film in New Zealand until the boycott, belying the union's claim that the move is about tax credits. Close-Up's interviews (video below) take place in the halted construction on the set of Gollum's Cave and around Lord of the Rings props. The second report comes from NZ 3 News from the rebuilt Bag End set. That report can be found here. Both reports, a little over 15 minutes each, do a good job of brings the various perspectives together.

Official Statements on Boycott Ending

New Zealand Actors Equity (NZAE), SAG, and AFTRA have issued statements indicating the do not work ban on The Hobbit production has been official lifted. The notice comes after a busy 24 hours where films actors and crew hit the streets to protest the boycott which is on the verge of causing the production to move to another country.

From Variety:
"New Zealand Actors' Equity and the Screen Production & Development Association (SPADA) have entered into an agreement to commence good faith negotiations for a new set of conditions which will govern the way in which performers are engaged in the local screen industry," read a statement from the two groups.

"Talks are to take place over the next six months. As a sign of good faith, while negotiations occur, Equity has agreed that those productions which fully comply with the current guidelines for the engagement of cast in the industry -- 'The Pink Book'-- will not be subject to industrial action," the press release continued.

From Deadline:

SAG
Los Angeles (October 20, 2010) - Screen Actors Guild today released the following statement regarding the feature film production The Hobbit:

“Today, our sister union New Zealand Actors Equity issued a statement recommending all international performer unions rescind their member advisories on the feature film production The Hobbit. In light of this recommendation, Screen Actors Guild will be alerting its members that they are now free to accept engagements, under Screen Actors Guild contract terms and conditions, on The Hobbit.”

AFTRA
NZ Actors Equity today recommended that the international performer unions of FIA withdraw their respective member advisories prohibiting members from accepting employment on the theatrical motion picture The Hobbit.

In light of this advisory and the recommendation from NZ Actors Equity, AFTRA hereby notifies all members that they may now accept employment on The Hobbit, under Screen Actors Guild contract terms and conditions.

We thank you for your show of solidarity with our international brothers and sisters.

I hope these official announcements will address Warner Bros and Peter Jackson's concerns and keep the production in New Zealand for the sake of thousands of workers that had nothing to do with the actor unions actions. Having said that, the questions remains, what happens if an agreement isn't reached in six months? Will NZAE and SAG reissue the boycott? The Hobbit is likely to be filming for the next year or more so that is a huge concern that is part of the equation on if a move is done or not.

Actor Ban Lifted, NZ Equity Protested, Hobbit Will Move?

The last 24 hours have turned out to be very busy on the actor boycott front. An anti-Equity rally was held, the boycott was lifted but production still may move. First a little background. The actor blacklist was enforced about a month ago against the Hobbit production at the behest of New Zealand Actor Equity (NZAE) which is an arm of Australia's Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) actor union. The blacklist received the necessary teeth when the most powerful actor union in the world, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), supported the move even though the Hobbit production met all the necessary requirements that SAG demands of productions for their union members. This in turn led to Canadian, UK and other actor unions into joining the boycott. The net result is even though The Hobbit had the green light, it could not hire any actors as most of the lead roles would come from these unions.

Compounding the problem is The Hobbit production could not really do anything about the union demands as government law prevents them from entering into an agreement with them. Also, even if the government signed up, the contract would only be bound in that one production, not all the others both current and future that could be filmed in the country. Basically, because of the support of SAG, only the 200 members of NZAE managed to put an entire film industry and literally thousands of jobs in jeopardy as now the studios have been put on notice that their productions could be held hostage at any time, for any reason, with demands that they may not even have the power to address or even a majority of the actors and production workers have an issue with.

This brings us to the crux of this whole situation. Unions generally form because a majority of the workforce feels there are fundamental problems that need to be addressed and only by joining together as a group, a union, can they get the necessary leverage to get their grievances corrected. That did not happen here. NZ Equity, representing only .05% of the total actors in the country, used non-New Zealand unions as the means to gain that leverage. This is the exact opposite of how a union is supposed to form and function.

This background brings up to the last 24 hours.

NZ Equity Actors Meeting Scheduled

It seems things continue to move at a glacial pace in an attempt to resolve the current actors strike declared worldwide against The Hobbit production at the behest of NZ Equity on behalf of Australian union MEAA and full support of the stateside Screen Actors Guild. NZ Equity has scheduled meetings with their union actors in Wellington on Wednesday and Auckland on Thursday. The meeting is only for union actors so if you are the other 99.05% of the New Zealand actors affected by this strike but not part of the union, you are not allowed to attend or have your opinions heard. They will, however, happily let you join if you wish to attend.

The goal seems to be to "“to discuss how we can work together to progress new industry standards for performers.” These current standards are apparently defined in the "The Pink Book" shorthand for official name of Code of Practice for the Engagement of Cast in NZ Screen Production Industry. More details on the unions perspective of their current actions and goals can be NZ Equity’s website.

The Hobbit in and of itself may not be on the agenda but I would be surprised if it doesn't take up a significant portion of the meetings considering the union has less than two weeks to come to some sort of agreement before production pulls out and costs actors hundreds of jobs.

It does seem the overall union goal is to inflate their member numbers, force a revision of the Pink Book, and attempt to make sure their members get first shot on any Hobbit roles. Sadly to achieve these goals that are really outside the power and scope of the Hobbit production, they are willing to hold the jobs of thousands of New Zealand actors and movie production professionals hostage.

The Hobbit Will Be in 3D, Casting Rumors

An official press release has been issued about the news that The Hobbit has the green light to begin production with Peter Jackson directing. With that release comes official verification that The Hobbit films will be released in 3D (which means the LOTR trilogy will likely be converted). On the bright side, it will be real 3D and not the fake post production 3D process used by The Last Airbender and Clash of the Titans to disastrous results.

On a related note, the news has kicked off multiple casting rumors. All unconfirmed and with the current actor boycott unlikely to be officially signed until that is settled one way or the other. Martin Freeman remains in the running, at least according to Simon Pegg, for Bilbo Baggins as the February start date is likely to come after Sherlock season 2 is filmed (but could create conflict for season 3 filming). Also in running for unknown roles are Jimmy Nesbitt, Michael Fassbender and the last Dr. Who David Tennant.

The Hobbit Gets Green Light, Peter Jackson Directing

The day The Lord of the Rings fans have been waiting to hear has come. The Hobbit has received the official green light. Peter Jackson has signed on to direct. Doesn't get any better than that really. From THR:

The announcement, made jointly by New Line president and COO Toby Emmerich, Warner Bros. president and COO Alan Horn, and MGM co-CEO Steve Cooper, says the "the two films based on 'The Hobbit' are now greenlit and will begin principal photography in February 2011, under the direction of Peter Jackson."

For the last 9 or so months, Peter Jackson has been working on unofficial pre-production for the films. At this point the only meaningful delay is making sure MGM has the money to pay for production and getting actors hired, signed, and fitted for costumes. Assuming these major obstacles can be overcome within a reasonable time frame, the tentative schedule to begin filming is February.

On the financial front, the LA Times reports there is at least a plan in place to sure that MGM can cover their half of the $500 million cost of the two films.

Although MGM is still not financially able to foot its part of the bill, it had to commit to the production before filming could start. MGM is expected to talk to potential funding sources, including other studios that could handle foreign distribution on its behalf. As a backup plan, Warner Bros. has agreed to loan MGM the money in exchange for additional rights to the picture beyond the domestic distribution it already controls.

The actor boycott does have a plan B, complete with a near two week deadline set by Peter Jackson to reach some resolution. However, NZ Equity, MEAA, SAG continue to drag their feet on having the necessary meetings to reach a resolution. They also continue to shun the press and avoid providing any specifics on what demands they want to have addressed. Assuming the unions behave as they have for the last three weeks, production will have to move to another country which will complicate the start date. The move may not necessarily end the boycott but supposedly part of the reason for the boycott is the production wasn't unionized to begin with. If it is moved to a country that already has union agreements in place, then the boycott becomes moot, sadly at the cost of thousands of New Zealand jobs and billions in revenue.

The Dominion Post did got a few additional statements.

“Exploring Tolkien’s Middle-earth goes way beyond a normal film making experience” Jackson said, "It’s an all-immersive journey into a very special place of imagination, beauty and drama. "We’re looking forward to re-entering this wondrous world with Gandalf and Bilbo - and our friends at New Line Cinema, Warner Brothers and MGM”.

“There is no human being on the planet as qualified as Peter Jackson to direct these films,” said Warner Bros president Alan Horn. “Peter is incredibly talented and has the creative vision and experience to bring this beloved property to life in a way that no other film-maker could."

“Peter is a filmmaker of incomparable ability; having him return to Middle-earth to produce and direct is a dream come true. A true original, Jackson is a gifted story-teller, visionary director and pioneer in film technology,” said New Line Cinema president Toby Emmerich. “Reuniting with Peter, Fran and Philippa on truly makes it feel like we are going ‘there and back again.’”

Deadline Set on Hobbit Move Decision

Peter Jackson and the studios have increased the pressure on NZ Equity, MEAA, and SAG, essentially setting a deadline of about two weeks on the amount of time they have to try and get their demands, whatever they are, on the table and come to an agreement. A meeting was held between the Screen Production Development Associated (SPADA), Equity, and Council of Trade Unions (CTU) to try to sort the issue out with New Zealand government represented by Gerry Brownlee.

"It was a useful and productive discussion," said Mr Brownlee, and the parties had agreed "to work together to update the conditions of engagement for performers" in the local film and television industry. "The parties believe this process will help to ensure New Zealand remains an attractive screen production environment," said Mr Brownlee who did not wish to comment further.

A spokesman for Sir Peter this afternoon said The Hobbit situation remained unchanged following today's meeting in Auckland. "Warner Brothers are running financial models about the costs of shooting in a variety of countries. We expect a decision is still a week or two away."

A worldwide actor boycott was declared about three weeks against The Hobbit production, claiming unfair working conditions and contracts even though no filming or actors having actually reported to work yet. The move by the reported 200 member "strong" NZ Equity (out of around 4000 actors in the country) has been backed up by their Australian leaders of the MEAA and given the needed political strength when the Screen Actors Guild backed it up despite the production meeting its contractional obligations to SAG.

The meeting yesterday was the first actual meeting that NZ Equity agreed to as they continue to shun the press and refuse to reveal exactly what they are after and why they feel the boycott was necessary. If some form of agreement isn't reached before Warner Brothers makes a decision to move the production it could cost New Zealand billions in revenue and thousands of jobs including the chance of employment for the other 3800 actors not part of actor unions' actions. The overall bad faith shown by the unions with their deafening silence compared to the huge economic damage it could cause the country is beyond inexcusable.

The Hobbit Labor Meeting Planned for Thursday

The Hollywood Reporters has posted that a meeting has been scheduled for Thursday to attempt to end the boycott against the $500 million The Hobbit production that was started a few weeks ago by Australia's MEAA/NZ Equity Actors unions with the full support of the very powerful America's Screen Actors Guild that really made this boycott successful. Without SAG, it would not have had any traction.

That meeting, between the NZ Actors Equity and its parent Australia’s Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance, and the producers' guild, SPADA -- initially requested by SPADA on October 4 -- will include NZ economic development minister Gerry Brownlee, director of the Actors’ Equity Section of the MEAA Australia Simon Whipp and SPADA CEO Penelope Borland, along with other members of SPADA and Equity. 


SPADA’s Borland said that the guild hopes that the meeting “will resolve the uncertainty and confusion around the engagement of actors in New Zealand." 


One key goal she said is to “lead to the removal of the international boycott on 'The Hobbit,' enabling it to be filmed in New Zealand." “The Hobbit," while waiting to be green lit by Warner Bros and MGM, is the subject of an effective “do not work” order issued by unions led by MEAA, NZ Equity and supported by a number of others actors guilds internationally, pending the outcome of demands for new working condition for actors on the film. 


Borland told THR that the meeting Thursday is the first time that “anyone involved has been able to sit down and talk about the issues” but stressed the urgency for a resolution and removal of the boycott. “We are very seriously close to the wire” to losing the $500-million, two picture-production of “The Hobbit” in New Zealand she said. 


She added that it was inappropriate for NZ Equity to still be calling for a separate meeting with the producers of “The Hobbit,” as Equity did Wednesday. SPADA remains the body through which actors, agents and the union should negotiate any guidelines for work, Borland said.

Philippa Boyens' Media Release

Philippa Boyens', co-writer and co-producer of The Hobbit, has issued a media release via Wingnut Films about the production companies attempt to work out the boycott with NZ Equity/MEAA. The statement is a response to something to Helen Kelly, President of New Zealand's Council of Trade Unions, who asked Boyens to help resolve the dispute. From The One Ring:

WELLINGTON – Tuesday, 12 October 2010 – In response to comments made by Helen Kelly of the CTU, co-writer and co-producer on The Hobbit Philippa Boyens stated “I want to reassure Helen Kelly that the filmmakers involved in this production are working as hard as they can to save the jobs of the New Zealanders put at risk by the actions of NZ Equity and are doing everything they can to keep the production from being moved off-shore. Three Foot Seven is working with actors’ representatives, namely their agents, to ensure that the terms and conditions for all actors working on “The Hobbit” are fair and equitable and that the actors engaged to work on the films are happy with their contracts. The agents involved are doing an extremely good job of protecting their clients’ interests.“

Boyens went on to add: “I do not understand why NZ Equity would single out a New Zealand filmmaker who has always treated actors fairly and with respect; nor do I understand why NZ Equity would want to risk the international reputation of New Zealand as an excellent place to make films, thereby putting at risk thousands of film industry jobs, over demands that are, in their own words, “miniscule.”

After attending a meeting of Wellington Actors last night, it is becoming increasingly clear that NZ Equity do not have a mandate to speak for the majority of New Zealand actors and performers nor did they consult with other Guilds involved in the industry before instituting this boycott against “The Hobbit”. I would like to thank Yvette Reid and the other organizers of the Wellington Actors meeting for letting me attend. The room was packed, there were representations from Dave Gibson and Penelope Borland from SPADA, Helen Kelly from the CTU, myself, as one of the filmmakers involved with “The Hobbit”; Sue Rogers, a prominent New Zealand producer as well as several actors and filmmakers. Debate was lively, uncensored and at all times civil. It is a pity NZ Equity declined the opportunity to participate in such an important discussion when they are in fact responsible for initiating an industrial action which has inflicted enormous damage on the NZ film industry.”

NZ Equity also only represents about .05% of the total New Zealand actors, many of who do not support the boycott. While it isn't mentioned, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) should be added into the group as their support of the actor boycott is the only reason NZ Equity has the leverage it has. SAG continues to demand their actors refuse jobs (and money) from a film production that meets the union's requirements and has continued to fail to explain why. . Telling actors to refuse paying jobs without a real explanation should not go unquestioned. If SAG revokes its support, the rest will too.

Martin Freeman Comments on Hobbit

Martin Freeman, currently starring as Dr. Watson in the excellent Sherlock BBC series, commented to Empire Online on his near casting as Bilbo Baggins for the two The Hobbit films. Sadly his commitment to the second season of Sherlock forced him to turn down the role. He comments about that and the small possibility he could still sign on depending on how the schedules work out. Sherlock is filming now, The Hobbit starts in January so...

"I did have to say no to it for the second series of Sherlock," he says of the BBC 1 show in which he plays Dr. Watson. "But if something could be worked out, that would be great." But it must have been tough having to turn down such a plum part? "Oh yeah, I did it with a heavy heart, definitely."

But with The Hobbit’s starting date still up in the air, it seems there may still be room for manoeuvre. "I’d like to think so. If there is any outside possibility, then that would be great. But I’ve learned not to think too much or hope too much about stuff. It will happen if it happens."

Freeman also agreed that it would be refreshing to see Bilbo played by a slightly older actor, rather than someone fresh out of drama school (he's 39). "Absolutely, because Bilbo isn’t 20 at this stage of the story,’ he said, ‘and I reckon I could do a young Ian Holm. I think I could give that a go."

Jackson: No Movement, No Green Light

Despite recent reports that MGM may be closer to sorting out its financial difficulties that may pave the way for The Hobbit films, Sir Peter Jackson says that the film status has not really changed in any meaningful way. Jackson spoke with Empire Online about the true status of the film.

“We are nowhere different to any other reports or conversations,” Jackson told us last night. “We haven’t got a greenlight yet. We’re still waiting. Things still seem to be inching closer to some sort of happy place. I keep hearing that so many times now I’ve stopped tuning into it.”

“We’ve seen these reports before, reports saying there was going to be a greenlight in a couple of days — well, a week’s gone by and there isn’t one," adds Jackson. "You can’t believe everything you read. There is only one thing you want to believe and that’s when the studio announces a greenlight. As far as I’m aware that’s not going to be today. I keep hearing positive things. Everyone’s working very hard. There’s a lot of people at Warner Bros. who are working around the clock trying to manoeuvre through the MGM complexities. MGM is a company that is about to go bankrupt and in a way they are about to take The Hobbit into bankruptcy hell with them when they go down. Warners are trying to extract The Hobbit out of the bankruptcy hell before it happens. It is just so complicated I can’t even put my head into it. It’s all to do with American copyright laws, bankruptcy laws. A lot of Warner Bros. lawyers are working round the clock at the moment trying to make it happen so let’s see."

The goal seemed to be to control expectations and prevent fans from getting too excited or impatient. Realistically, until MGM sorts out its problems, the Hobbit will not move forward. As Jackson suggested WB could buy out MGM's 50% ownership but MGM's future plans seem to rely heavily on The Hobbit films and they will not give up that stake easily. Basically to sum it up, no MGM as a functioning studio = no Hobbit films.

MGM Prepares for Official Bankruptcy

In the sometimes weird world of business, the news that a storied studio such as MGM is nearing an official filing of bankruptcy is actually a good thing, especially for The Hobbit fans. According to Reuters, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer has put together a proposal that would wipe away about $4 billion in debt and put founders of Spyglass Entertainment in charge. In return for forgiving the debt, the current creditors would be converted to owners with 95.3% ownership of MGM with rest going to Spyglass.

The reason this is good news is it finally frees up the finances of MGM to return back to financing movies and other projects rather than continue to attempt to interest payments on the existing debt. Current creditors have until October 22nd to approve the plan. If approved, it would probably guarantee the green light for The Hobbit films and allow filming to start in January as currently planned.

Hobbiton Nearing Completion

While the boycott from the .05% of New Zealand actors that somehow got the support of 99% of other non-New Zealand actors continues, pre-production continued on the location of Hobbiton. As the image from the Daily Mail shows, the location is actually pretty sizable in scope. Click here to view more images.

Bilbo has called in the builders as preparations for the latest JRR Tolkien blockbuster continues. Just weeks after sheep were spotted making the most of the old Lord Of The Rings' set, the New Zealand location has been revived for the two-part Hobbit prequel.

New Hobbit holes are being dug, while the old ones are being spruced up ready for the start of filming later this year. The set, which will portray the Hobbit village of Hobbiton, will remain as a permanent tourist attraction and theme park near the Waikato town of Matamata.

Other Countries Vying for Hobbit Production

As the actor unions’ Hobbit boycott started by Australia's MEAA via its New Zealand Equity arm, other countries are looking to take advantage of the potential billions in financial impact the films could bring in if the studios decide they have to move production. One of those countries pushing for relocation is Australia. In an interview with New Zealand's National Radio's Nine to Noon show (recording), The Hobbit writer spoke about the boycott.

"I am concerned over some of the statements made... by New Zealand Equity that there is still a misunderstanding on the seriousness of what is involved here and what is at stake," she said. "That is very real and that has put at risk the livelihood of countless thousand New Zealand industry workers."

Scotland, Ireland, Canada and Eastern European countries had entered the negotiations in a "feeding frenzy" inspired by the threat of union action. "Get this, Australia, (are) making a huge play for this production," Ms Boyens said. She said Jackson had been given, as a courtesy, the opportunity to set-up The Hobbit in New Zealand.

The employment of thousands of New Zealanders had been put in jeopardy. Actors should have begun work a fortnight ago, she said. Ms Boyens said it was a lie to say The Hobbit was a non-union production. The problem was that New Zealand actors were independent contractors. "When this demand was made by overseas unions, instituted quite cynically by the Australian union, and not in consultation with New Zealand actors... I was gobsmacked. They never took a vote, they went for industrial action, they pushed the nuclear bomb, without a vote being taken by New Zealand actors," she said. "A lot of damage has been done to New Zealand's reputation."

The Hobbit in 3D?

New York Times is reporting that a source has revealed that The Hobbit films will be in 3D. The films are reported to be on the verge of getting the official green light to begin principle photography in January for a potential December 12th, 2012 release date.

Orobable director of the films, Peter Jackson, had indicated that the film would not be done in 3D, "Guillermo [del Toro] wants to shoot in 35mm, old-fashioned film," Jackson said, "which suits me, because he wants to keep it in the same space as the original trilogy".

It sounds like with Del Toro out, Jackson might have warmed up to using the latest 3D tech. This rumor remains unconfirmed but if true, let us all hope Jackson goes with Real 3D rather than the still pathetic post-production process that has plagued many other recent non-animated 3D films. (via OneRing)

The Hobbit Close to Green Light?

A new article from LA Times Blog indicates that The Hobbit is finally on the verge of an official green light after nearly a year of unofficial (but still costly) pre-production on the film. Two major hurtles, MGM's bankruptcy and actor unions' strike, seem on the verge of being cleared. It seems that MGM's in paying the nearly $500 million production might be loaned to MGM by Warner Bros. to go ahead and get the official go ahead. The goal seem to be to avoid further delays and still hit now desired Christmas 2012 and 2013 release dates.

MGM is eager to make the films, people close to the situation said, and could give Warner Bros. the official okay in the next few days. However, it will still need to secure its half of the financing. Barber is expected to approach a number of potential investors, including studios including 20th Century Fox, which has an existing deal with MGM to release its movies overseas. Other possibilities include outside financial investors or Warner Bros., which could loan MGM its share in exchange for additional distribution rights to the pictures.

People close to the project said that, barring a last-minute glitch, they expect to have all issues settled shortly in order to begin production in mid-January so that the first of the two movies would be ready for a holiday 2012 release. The second film is planned for a December 2013 opening. If production doesn't begin by the first quarter of next year, the people said, "The Hobbit" will miss its planned release dates and will likely have to once again be delayed.

If this green light comes as planned with a January start date, Sir Peter Jackson is on the verge of signing the deal that will bring him back to the director's chair for the film. Overall, assuming everything lines up as hoped, this is fantastic news for fans of the Trilogy.