China agreement adds to KOJO film growth

KOJO has moved a step closer to its first Chinese film project with the integrated storytelling company signing a co-production agreement with China-based studio HD Arts, located in the city of Wuxi.

The exclusive agreement between KOJO and HD Arts will see the parties begin coproduction development immediately, with expectations that an agreed project will be underway in the New Year.

Says KOJO founding partner Kent Smith: “This is a very exciting first step into China for KOJO. We have spent considerable time building our networks in China and are confident we have found a long-term partner in HD Arts. Both parties are now working closely together to identify a suitable film project. We would hope to be up and running on our first co-production in 2014.”

The Chinese agreement comes as KOJO is in the midst of its busiest year in film and television production.

Since January, KOJO has completed or is in post-production on:

• Six feature films – Wolf Creek 2 for director Greg McLean, The Babadook for director Jennifer Kent, 52 Tuesdays for director Sophie Hyde, Infinite Man for director Hugh Sullivan, Son of A Gun for director Julius Avery and Lemon Tree Passage for director David Campbell.

• A 26-episode television series – Sam Fox – Extreme Adventures for SLR Productions.

• A 6-episode drama series – Anzac Girls for Screentime and the ABC.

In June, KOJO also secured a multi-million dollar investment deal with US-based Main Street Films for the upcoming feature film titled ONE.

A sample of KOJO’s work for several film producers will be showcased this week for the Adelaide Film Festival, which runs from October 10-20.

Says KOJO director of creative strategy Marty Pepper: “Film and television is a part of KOJO’s storytelling DNA so it is very satisfying to continue to work nationally and internationally on such a diverse range of projects. KOJO is proud to be working alongside some of the most exciting directors and producers in the industry. In a tough economic climate, we’re on track for our busiest year in film and television production and post-production. This is testament to the personal relationships we have built over the years and our total commitment to quality work. Over the past 22 years KOJO has focussed on becoming a trusted ally in the film and television industry. Our post-production team has now been involved with over 30 films, seven of which KOJO has been involved in producing and eight that were for the Hollywood studio system. Given the developments in China and several other international project irons in the fire, we are very excited about 2014.”