A film based on a Margaret Mahy novel has scored a prestigious selection in New York that could see it win financial backing in the US.
The Changeover, an adaptation by award-winning director Stuart McKenzie, will participate in the No Borders International Co-Production Market during next week's Independent Film Week in New York.
The market provides an opportunity for pitching ideas to the film industry with the hope of securing financial partners, the New Zealand Film Commission says.
Mahy's classic novel for young adults is a coming-of-age romance featuring a troubled suburban teenager who must destroy an ancient spirit sucking the life out of her little brother. It has never been out of print in the US and Britain since it was first published in 1984.
The Film Commission invested in the script development and has recently supported McKenzie in a directing internship with Jane Campion on her new television drama Top of the Lakes.
Commission development executive Katherine Fry said she was confident of the movie's potential to captivate a wide audience.
"We and the filmmakers are excited about The Changeover's ability to speak to young adults. It builds on our commitment to supporting world-class feature films for families."
