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Prime Minister Jacinda not involved with new movie

Author
NZ Herald ,
Publish Date
Fri, 11 Jun 2021, 11:37AM
Emmy nominated actress Rose Byrne is set to play Jacinda Ardern. (Photos / Getty Images)
Emmy nominated actress Rose Byrne is set to play Jacinda Ardern. (Photos / Getty Images)

Prime Minister Jacinda not involved with new movie

Author
NZ Herald ,
Publish Date
Fri, 11 Jun 2021, 11:37AM

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had no involvement in a new film set to portray one of New Zealand's darkest days in history - and how she responded to it.

The movie, They Are Us, highlights the weeks after the tragic Christchurch mosque shootings on March 15, 2019, and the weeks that followed.

A spokesman for the PM's office told the Herald the Prime Minister and the Government have had no involvement with it.

Written and directed by New Zealand's own Andrew Niccol, the film follows Ardern's response to the massacre and showcases how Kiwis rallied behind her message of compassion and unity - including the Government's response that saw a ban on assault rifles in New Zealand.

Ardern, who will be the main protagonist, will be played by Australian actress Rose Byrne.

The title of the film is taken from Arden's powerful speech following the devastating attack that led to the deaths of 51 people who were taking part in Friday prayers.

Ardern received worldwide praise for her response to the shootings and New Zealand rallied around the country's Muslim community, echoing the Government's response.

The script was developed directly in consultation with several members of the mosques affected by the tragedy.

'They Are Us'

Exactly what will be portrayed or just how much of the events from that day will be depicted in the film remains unknown.

Production is set to take place in New Zealand and will be produced by Ayman Jamal, Stewart Till, Niccol and Philippa Campbell.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern pictured a day after the devastating Christchurch mosque shootings in March, 2019. (Photo / Supplied)

"They Are Us is not so much about the attack but the response to the attack [and] how an unprecedented act of hate was overcome by an outpouring of love and support," Niccol told Deadline.

"The film addresses our common humanity, which is why I think it will speak to people around the world. It is an example of how we should respond when there's an attack on our fellow human beings."

Basner said: "We are thrilled to bring to market this inspiring story about the positive impact, even in the darkest of moments, a strong leader can have on their constituents' lives when they work from a place of compassion, love and an unwavering conviction to do what is right."

Byrne recently starred in a limited series titled Mrs. America where she portrayed journalist and activist Gloria Steinem. She is also well known for her more comedic roles in Bridesmaids, and Bad Neighbours.

Kiwi director Niccol was nominated for an Oscar for his film Gattaca, which he wrote and directed. He also wrote and produced Oscar-nominated pic The Truman Show starring Jim Carrey.

The project is currently set to be shopped to international buyers and ​at the upcoming Cannes Virtual Market, with CAA Media Finance selling to domestic and worldwide distributors.

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