Written by David Lewis on Aug 26, 2009. Posted in Incentive News

Screen Australia announces support for 16 new projects

An adaptation of Louis de Bernières’ best-selling novel Red Dog is among USD12.5 million of new Screen Australia investment. The film was adapted for the screen by Daniel Taplitz and will be directed by Kriv Stenders and produced by Nelson Woss and Julie Ryan. Production is expected to take place in Western Australia’s Pilbara from October.

Ruth Harley, Screen Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “In an environment where we have significantly less funding to invest in feature films, it is great to find a very Australian story that explodes with charm. The Red Dog story has already touched the lives of many people and we know audiences will also embrace it warmly on the screen.”

Screen Australia also announced support for Slide, an innovative integrated multiplatform drama experience, and the second series of the internationally successful children’s television programme, Elephant Princess.

Three dramas inspired by real-life events have received production investment support: Hawke, which focuses on the transformation of Bob Hawke; Sisters of War, inspired by a small group of Australians who were made prisoners of war; and Credence, the shocking story of Maria Korp who was left to die in the boot of her car. Ten documentaries also received support.

Screen Australia’s investment will trigger in excess of USD46 million of production.