Based on the timeless young adult novel by iconic Kiwi writer Margaret Mahy, The Changeover, which is set in post-earthquake Christchurch, tells the story of troubled teenage Laura Chant (Erana James) who must ‘change over’ and become a witch in order to save her little brother Jacko (Benji Purchase) from an evil ancient spirit (Timothy Spall).
Shot entirely on location in Christchurch, The Changeover brings together a world class cast including Timothy Spall (Mr Turner, Harry Potter), Melanie Lynskey (Two and a Half Men, Heavenly Creatures), Lucy Lawless (Xena, Ash vs Evil Dead) Nicholas Galitzine (Handsome Devil, High Strung) and Dame Kate Harcourt (Second Hand Wedding, Separation City) as well as newcomer Erana James-Ngati Whatau Orakei, Waikato Tainui-as the film’s lead Laura Chant and Benji Purchase-Ngati Tuwharetoa-as Jacko Chant. The film was directed by Stuart McKenzie & Miranda Harcourt with McKenzie also responsible for the film’s screenplay.
“It’s a thrill to finally be bringing The Changeover to cinemas,” say Harcourt and McKenzie. “We are so proud of the awesome performances by our cast from award-winning actor Timothy Spall from Harry Potter fame through to newcomer Erana James. The film is beautiful, intense, dreamy and emotional and we can’t wait for audiences to see it.”
The Changeover was produced by Emma Slade from Firefly Films with investment from the New Zealand Film Commission, private investors and the New Zealand Screen Production Grant. Financing has been in association with Fulcrum Media Finance. Production partners include Park Road Post Production, Pukeko Pictures and the Christchurch City Council. Vendetta Films will distribute the film across New Zealand and Australia.