Principal photography has commenced in Wellington for the debut feature of Academy Award nominated director, Taika Waititi.
Based on the script, EAGLE vs SHARK, it is an unusual and funny tale of two awkward misfits searching for love and acceptance.
But it was the discovery of a four-leafed clover on set that captivated and bemused crew on the first day of filming last Monday. (November 31).
The rare and universal symbol of luck was found by Loren Horsley who plays the lead of Lily, a character needing all the good fortune she can get.
“When Loren found a four leaf clover I was very upset. I wanted to run away and cry. But, contrary to my original fears, it means good luck, so that’s not such a worry,” says Waititi as he descends into the madness of his wry and comic film.
The story of EAGLE vs SHARK is both written and directed by Waititi and follows the strange journey of Lily and Jarrod, played by comedian and musician Jemaine Clement.
She yearns for romance, he dreams of revenge. They interplay over burgers, video games and high-school bullies.
Icon Film Distribution has acquired the Australian and New Zealand distribution rights for the film which will be distributed in New Zealand by Hoyts Distribution.
It is not a typical love story but it is typically Waititi, who’s off beat yet astute observations of human nature has been recognised internationally.
His short film, Two Cars, One Night, was nominated for an Academy Award.
His recent, TAMA TU, won Best Short at the Melbourne Film Festival in August, making him eligible once again for Oscar consideration.
EAGLE vs SHARK is being produced by Ainsley Gardiner and Cliff Curtis of Whenua Films and funded by the New Zealand Film Commission.
Filming takes place at a number of sites around Wellington over five weeks with a dedicated crew of 35.
It is the intention of production that all aspects of filming reflect an intimate story, a study of two wayward souls, the characters around them and the unexpected connections we make.
The four-leafed clover was made for the part.
By tradition, one leaf is for faith..
The second for hope..
The third for love..
And the fourth for luck.
ALL MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Maramena Roderick
Unit Publicist
021 45 46 47