New Zealand Drama for the World

This year a project was initiated by NZ On Air, the Film Commission and Script to Screen to sell on-screen New Zealand drama to the world. These days, many of the best examples aren't on linear TV, or even at the cinema. They're on streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Raupapa Whakaari: Drama To The World attracted an enthusiastic response - whittled down, first, to a long list of 10 projects, and this week to a final four. TV Drama with the range - and budget - of a major feature film. Movies that can go on as long as they need to. That's the inspiration behind Drama to the World. These days the market for international dramas is wide open. There are hits on Netflix and the like from Denmark, France, Germany, Israel... so why not New Zealand? Simon Morris talks to Amie Mills from NZ On Air, who's been co-ordinating the project. Then Lynn Freeman talks with two of the producers of one of the four finalists for development. Ashes and Prophets is produced by Philippa Rennie from Warners TV NZ, and the hugely experienced film and TV producer Robin Scholes, best known for her work with Lee Tamahori on Once were Warriors and Mahana. Lee's also on board on Ashes and Prophets.