Written by on Sep 26, 2013. Posted in On Location

Fantasy feature The Moon and the Sun to film on location in Australia

New fantasy film The Moon and the Sun will film on location in Victoria, Australia, in 2014. The movie is based on a novel from Vonda McIntyre and tells a story of King Louis XIV of France capturing a mermaid to steal its life force.

“We have a beautiful French story, acclaimed English and Chinese actors, and the best Australian creative talent all combining to make a completely unique adult fairy tale,” said producer Bill Mechanic of Pandemonium Films.

“Securing significant international screen projects such as The Moon and the Sun enhances Victoria’s reputation as a world-leading, cosmopolitan state for innovative film production,” said Louise Asher, Victoria’s Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business: “In addition to an estimated AUD25 million in production expenditure, The Moon and the Sun will employ up to 1,200 Victorians in cast and crew, reaping extensive benefits for the Victorian screen industry and broader economy.”

“The Moon and the Sun will provide a brilliant opportunity for Victorian screen practitioners and visual effects artists to demonstrate their talent and skills to the international market,” added Jenni Tosi, head of Film Victoria.

Securing significant international screen projects such as The Moon and the Sun enhances Victoria’s reputation as a world-leading, cosmopolitan state for innovative film production

Louise Asher, Victoria Minister

Filming will be based at Docklands Studios Melbourne, which offers five sound stages, the largest of which is 25,000 square feet. The facility has recently hosted Don’t Be Afraid Of The Dark and the upcoming I, Frankenstein.

The Moon and the Sun is set to star Pierce Brosnan, Fan Bing Bing and Bill Nighy, and will start filming in April 2014.

Australia is enjoying a boosted international profile as it’s about to host filming for Unbroken, Angelina Jolie’s second film as director. Next year, Disney is scheduled to film its big-budget remake of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea locally.

(Main page photo: Richard Mikalsen)