The Finocchiaro CLP Government continues putting the Northern Territory in the international spotlight, with Territory-made film Kangaroo released today in cinemas across the nation and the world.
Filmed almost entirely in Central Australia, Kangaroo will showcase Territory people, stories and landscapes, while generating tourism and supporting local jobs and businesses.
Already, Kangaroo has delivered more than $4.3 million in direct spending across Alice Springs and Central Australia, engaged 150 Territory businesses, and employed 193 Territorians during production.
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby, who attended the film's premiere at Event Cinemas in Palmerston last night, said Kangaroo demonstrates the Territory's strength as both a screen and tourism destination.
"When audiences watch Kangaroo, they aren't just seeing a film, they're seeing Central Australia at its best," said Ms Boothby.
"It's a Territory story told by Territory talent, and now it's reaching the world - that inspires people to come here, stay longer and experience it for themselves, along with showcasing the incredible talent of our local creatives."
Produced by Alice Springs-based Brindle Films with STUDIOCANAL ANZ's Cultivator Films, Kangaroo will screen in 300 cinemas across Australia and internationally in Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, with additional releases planned for the rest of the world.
"This is a regional production that has delivered global impact - its Territory premieres in Alice Springs and Palmerston brought together cast, crew and the local community who helped make it happen," said Ms Boothby.
Screen Territory has supported Kangaroo since its inception, reflecting the CLP Government's commitment to building the Territory's screen sector as a driver of jobs and economic growth.
"In our year of action, certainty and security, we've backed Screen Territory with $3.6 million in our first budget. Every dollar invested in screen returns at least four back into our economy," said Ms Boothby.
"That's why films like Kangaroo matter - they deliver jobs, investment and visitors for the Territory."
Department of Tourism and Hospitality CEO Suzana Bishop said: "We knew right from the beginning that Kangaroo had to be filmed in Alice Springs - home of the amazing Kangaroo Sanctuary.
"Kangaroo is a film about connection, community, friendship and the unique spirit of the Territory, and as such we couldn't be prouder to share this film with audiences around the world."
The NT's screen momentum continues with Tourism NT also sponsoring the launch of Miranda Tapsell's new series Top End Bub on Amazon, extending the Territory's storytelling to new audiences.
