03-14-2003, 12:35 AM
Had Jackson wanted to make LOTR in America, his interview on the web reflected that the expected it to have cost about three times as much.
I don't think that cost was 'the' driver, but I think the lower cost aspect of filming in NZ allowed him to sell the risk/reward equation in a favorable light so that New Line would put the dough into it. It also, ironically, culled the possible actors down to those who would commit, and "get away from it all" to do the filming. :) Considering also that he needed raw scenic beauty in abundant supply, and a populace that would put up with sword armed nutcases (like Vitgo Mortensen, who reputedly went everywhere with his sword) without panicking, and that he is from NZ himself . . . it looks like the right choice was made for a number of good reasons.
I don't think that cost was 'the' driver, but I think the lower cost aspect of filming in NZ allowed him to sell the risk/reward equation in a favorable light so that New Line would put the dough into it. It also, ironically, culled the possible actors down to those who would commit, and "get away from it all" to do the filming. :) Considering also that he needed raw scenic beauty in abundant supply, and a populace that would put up with sword armed nutcases (like Vitgo Mortensen, who reputedly went everywhere with his sword) without panicking, and that he is from NZ himself . . . it looks like the right choice was made for a number of good reasons.
Cry 'Havoc' and let slip the Men 'O War!
In War, the outcome is never final. --Carl von Clausewitz--
Igitur qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum
John 11:35 - consider why.
In Memory of Pete
In War, the outcome is never final. --Carl von Clausewitz--
Igitur qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum
John 11:35 - consider why.
In Memory of Pete