Queensland Minister for the Arts Ian Walker today announced the Walt Disney Studios’ decision to film the fifth instalment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise in Queensland, Australia.
The news was revealed at the Griffith Film School in South Bank this morning as eager students gathered around, mindful of the incredible opportunities now ahead of them in their home town.
Minister Walker spoke on behalf of Federal Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon George Brandis QC and Queensland Premier Campbell Newman as he announced the Australian Government’s contribution of $21.6 million, making it “Australia’s largest ever contribution to the financing of a major film.”
“The fifth film in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise will be the largest international feature film ever to shoot in Australia and will focus the world’s attention on Australia as a leading film destination,” he said.
“Our investment in attracting the film to Australia will result in substantial benefits for the screen industry and economy.”
A boost for the local industry
Ms Tracey Vieira, CEO of Screen Queensland also spoke of the large role such a film would play in economic, employment and skills development opportunities to Queensland’s creative talent.
“International productions such as this Walt Disney Studios film increase investment in new technology, equipment and other infrastructure and we are thrilled to see Pirates 5 sail into Queensland,” she said.
Such a sentiment is shared by Head of the Griffith Film School Professor Herman Van Eyken who says the film will open up opportunities to young local cinematic talent, particularly in entry level jobs.
Following a tour of the Griffith Film School, Mr Walker said pre-production would start early this month with principal photography anticipated to begin in February next year. The film will also be shooting at the Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast.
The fifth instalment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise is being produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg.The cast is yet to be announced.
The film is slated to be released in cinemas worldwide in July 2017.
The Griffith Film School has approximately 800 students — dubbed the next generation of filmmakers, animators and game designers for creative careers within the international business of film, television and digital screen media creation.
During his tour Minister Walker met with a number of Griffith Film School students to see their work in action
