Press release from Victorian Government
The star of action films The Transporter and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Jason Statham, is coming to Victoria to film a new blockbuster action thriller, Minister for Innovation, Gavin Jennings announced today.
Mr Jennings said The Killer Elite would complete pre-production, filming and post-production in Victoria this year, providing a boost to the local film industry.
“The Brumby Government is taking action to support the local film industry by attracting world-class productions to Victoria,” Mr Jennings said.
“The makers of The Killer Elite will spend at least $32 million and create approximately 250 jobs for Victorians, which is a significant boost to the State’s economy.
“It reiterates the Brumby Government’s commitment to stimulating production levels that lead to employment and business opportunities across the screen industry.”
The feature film, to be produced by Australian company Omnilab Media, will be directed by Gary McKendry (Everything in This Country Must) and stars Statham. It was attracted to Victoria by the Brumby Labor Government’s screen agency Film Victoria.
The Killer Elite will film in metropolitan and regional locations across Victoria. Pre-production is slated for February with filming expected to start in April.
“One of Victoria’s biggest strengths is its diverse range of locations, so many of which are in close proximity to the city,” Mr Jennings said.
Film Victoria CEO, Sandra Sdraulig said locations were just one element of Victoria’s production attraction package.
“Our strengths include world-class crew and facilities, financial incentives, fantastic support services, film-friendly councils and of course, our relaxed lifestyle,” Ms Sdraulig said.
“The Killer Elite provides an opportunity for Victorian crews to work on a high-budget feature film and further develop their skills. This experience and knowledge will in turn increase the capabilities of the local industry.”
The film follows the activities of two secret organisations; The Clinic, consisting of three contract killers, and The Feather Men, an underground group of vigilante killers who protect former and present members of the Special Air Service (SAS) and their families. It is based on the book The Feather Men, by Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
Mr Jennings said the Brumby Government had identified the screen industry as a major economic driver to the State through its new strategy, Our Vision on Screen.
“The strategy outlines initiatives worth $178 million over five years to drive the industry’s growth, including production attraction programs to secure high-calibre international and local films, such as The Killer Elite,” Mr Jennings said.