A major new film production is set to touchdown at Kardinia Park later this month, marking another international screen production that will boost the economy and bring jobs to the state - thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks today announced that Victoria has secured a new major film production, the 'Untitled John Tuggle project,' - a heartwarming story about an underdog American footballer - which will see Kardinia Park transformed into an NFL stadium for the film.
The film tells the heartfelt and inspiring true story of John Tuggle, who was named the "Mr. Irrelevant" of the 1983 NFL draft as the last player chosen in the last round by the New York Giants, and his enduring impact on his team and teammates.
The Skydance Sports production will create 825 jobs for Victorian screen workers and extras and inject almost $29 million into the Victorian economy. It will also engage an estimated 125 Victorian businesses from specialist screen businesses to accommodation providers and hospitality venues.
The film, which stars David Corenswet (Superman), Michael Shannon (Nocturnal Animals, Shape of Water) and Isabel May (1883, Masters of Air, I Want You Back), will kick off production at the home of the Cats, Kardinia Park later this month and will also shoot at La Trobe University Sports Park in Bundoora.
The production, which is backed by the Labor Government through the Victorian Screen Rebate, will also involve a team of over 500 Victorian extras, including members of the local gridiron community who will suit up to play referees, umpires and more.
The film will be produced by Skydance Sports with Levine and Gillian Bohrer for Megamix and Nick Santora for Blackjack Films. Stan Wlodkowski will executive produce.
This project continues Victorian's run of major screen productions including thriller TV series The Dispatcher, which is set to film in Warrnambool from later this month, and Liam Neeson action thriller The Mongoose, which filmed earlier this year across the state.
As stated by Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks
"It's exciting to see another major international production coming to life in Victoria, creating hundreds of jobs and delivering economic impact in Melbourne and regional Victoria."
"This project continues the winning streak for our local screen industry, showcasing both our creative capability and our world class sporting facilities."
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"This production will shine a global spotlight on Victoria's thriving gridiron community ahead of the Los Angeles Rams' historic appearance in Australia's first-ever NFL regular season games at the MCG next year."
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
"Kardinia Park is more than a sporting venue - it's a world-class stadium that continues to attract major opportunities like this film production, bringing local jobs, economic benefits, and global exposure for Geelong."
As stated by VicScreen CEO Caroline Pitcher
"Victoria has achieved its vision to become a global powerhouse for screen production and our screen industry is known for its highly skilled and experienced crews and local businesses, diverse locations, and talented creatives."
As stated by Brad Carlson, EVP of Physical Production at Skydance
"We are thrilled to be making this film in Victoria with its first-class crews and screen infrastructure. The state's amazing sports facilities and varied locations can double locations like New York, California and Mexico, so we knew there was no better place to bring this project to life."
