Melanie Lynskey, a three-time Emmy nominee, will headline the dramatic thriller Pike River, set in New Zealand and based on one of the country’s most devastating recent tragedies. Lynskey will co-star with Robyn Malcolm (Top of the Lake, Blackbird), both of whom were rumored to lead the cast, and Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess) will also feature in the film.
Pike River is directed by Robert Sarkies (Out of the Blue) and scripted by Fiona Samuel (Consent). The story centers on Anna Osborne and Sonya Rockhouse, two women who found strength in their friendship to fight for justice after the 2010 Pike River Mine disaster, which claimed 29 lives. The film is produced by Vicky Pope (Savage, Went Up the Hill) and Timothy White (I Am Mother). Signature Entertainment will manage international sales at the Cannes Film Market.
Shot on New Zealand’s South Island, Pike River was supported by members of the local community and created with backing from the New Zealand Film Commission, NZ On Air, and other organizations. Madman Entertainment will distribute the film in New Zealand and Australia.
Melanie Lynskey, Robyn Malcolm to Lead 'Pike River' Thriller About New Zealand Mining Disaster, Signature Launching Sales in Cannes (EXCLUSIVE) https://t.co/70dYhTgk9e
— Variety (@Variety) May 9, 2024
Producer Vicky Pope said This story shows the power of ordinary people standing up for what they believe in. She praised Lynskey and Malcolm as a dynamic team playing two brave women akin to Erin Brockovich and Norma Rae, describing the film as New Zealand’s own version: gutsy, real, flawed, and brave.
Ella Field, Signature’s executive VP of international sales, expressed enthusiasm for the film’s moving story and praised Lynskey and Malcolm’s performances. Signature will showcase footage from Pike River at Cannes, alongside Riff Raff, a crime comedy featuring Jennifer Coolidge, Ed Harris, and Gabrielle Union. Source
