First image of Pike River film starring Melanie Lynskey and Robyn Malcolm released
The first image has been unveiled of the upcoming Pike River film, due out in cinemas later this year.
Pike River is based on the 2010 Pike River Mine tragedy, in which 29 miners lost their lives after an explosion underground.
The film looks at the impact the tragedy had on the Greymouth community. Pike River was one of the worst mining disasters in New Zealand’s history.
Directed by Rob Sarkies, the film stars three-time Emmy nominee Melanie Lynskey and Robyn Malcolm.
Lynskey plays Anna Osborne, while Malcolm takes on the role of Sonya Rockhouse. Both women lost men in the mine, and have been at the forefront of the families’ efforts to get justice and accountability for the accident.
Lucy Lawless and Tim Gordon also feature in the film.
Pike families have been actively involved in the production of the film, with some even featuring as extras.
Speaking about the film, Sarkies said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to have actors of Melanie and Robyn’s calibre in the film. Their outstanding performances will remind audiences everywhere of the human cost of these kind of events, as well as the importance of fighting for what you believe is right.”
He added: “Our entire cast and crew were inspired by the courage of the Pike River families, and have worked so hard to do their story justice.”
There is no release date yet for the film.