As executives from Warner Bros. visited New Zealand to deliberate about whether to film the studio’s pair of planned “Hobbit” prequels there, people from around the country joined in demonstrations in an attempt to tip the balance in their favor. The prequels, once again based on the work of author J.R.R. Tolkien, are slated to be shot by native lensman Peter Jackson — another reason why New Zealanders are keen on making sure the next productions stay at home. –KA

BBC:

The demonstrators hoped to reassure Hollywood studio executives as they decide whether the Lord of the Rings prequels should be shot in the country.

Last month, acting unions threatened to boycott the films in a row over wages.

Though that threat has now been lifted, Warner Bros said the unions’ actions had caused “substantial damage”.

Their actions, a studio statement issued last week continued, had “forced us to consider other filming locations for the first time.”

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Here’s a little number that some pro-“Hobbit” Kiwis put together to help their cause (via The Wrap):

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