Suva, April 7, 2009 - A week after announcing that a major Bollywood producer will be visiting Fiji later this month to scout for locations for an upcoming film, the Fiji Audio Visual Commission (FAVC) revealed today that local actors will soon get a chance earlier than this to act in a Hindi feature film. Another Bollywood production is coming to town!

Speaking to the press today FAVC Chairperson, Ms. Smith-Johns said "Bollywood has come to town - today, I'm pleased to present to you, Mr Monty Issar, of Purple Post Productions of New Zealand. Mr. Issar's production, "Pump up the Mandali," added Ms. Smith-Johns, will put on display the best of local talent available for film productions.

The FAVC will be providing all the logistical support necessary to facilitate this production. Ms. Smith-Johns said that the producers are here to scout locations and to hold auditions for the recruitment of local cast for the movie. "We are very excited about this," said Ms. Smith-Johns. Featuring in a film of this nature is a great opportunity for local artists to showcase their talents and to receive international recognition. The exposure of local talent internationally, she added, will show other producers that Fiji has a significant pool of cast and crew to support international productions. The producers will be providing some training to the artists selected. This, Ms. Smith-Johns added compliments an important part of the FAVC's function which is to develop a strong infrastructure and local services support base, including developing a pool of local actors.

The film is a light hearted, emotional drama. It's emphasis will be on a blend of traditional folk songs and modern pop and hip hop; and with slick dance sequences, it is set to entertain the general public. Rural and city scenes are depicted in the film and the producers will be recruiting Indian and Fijian male and female actors. Production will beginin May.

The movie will specifically target the large Fiji Indian communities all over the world including the United States, Canada, England, Australia, West Indies and New Zealand. This exposure, added Ms. Smith-Johns, will publicize Fiji locations as a production destination and also the spin-off to tourism will be significant.

Auditions for the film will be held on 8th April at 68 Suva Street from 10am.

For additional information/ clarification, please call Florence Swamy on 330 6662 or 992 6665