James Cameron and 55-member crew reach New Zealand to restart film production; see pics

As lockdown eases worldwide amid coronavirus, the international crew of James Cameron’s film ‘Avatar 2’ have got special permission to shoot in New Zealand. They have entered the country to shoot the film. James Cameron's 'Avatar 2' has a budget of over Rs 7500 crore, making it the most expensive film

This comes at a time when New Zealand has closed the country’s borders as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. This is a special permission granted to the filming crew. The borders have been closed since March 16.

James Cameron along with his 55 members crew reached New Zealand on a private charter plane over the weekend. Check out the first look of the film here. 

While many from the entertainment industry are happy about the development, some people are upset at others not being allowed to come back amid easing of lockdown.

Jon Landau, James Cameron’s producer, posted an Instagram picture of them arriving at Wellington international airport. They were both taking precautions as they were seen wearing face masks and plastic face shields. Jon wrote, “Made it to New Zealand. Our 14-day government-supervised self-isolation now begins.”

Last month Jon Landau posted an image of the Avatar set in New Zealand and expressed his excitement at returning to work on the film in Wellington. He is the same guy who won an Oscar for his work on ‘Titanic’.

“Our #Avatar sets are ready — and we couldn’t be more excited to be headed back to New Zealand next week. Check out the Matador, a high speed forward command vessel (bottom) and the Picador jetboat (top) — can’t wait to share more,” he wrote.

Reportedly, the team is said to be “completely isolated” from other people. 

‘Avatar 2’ is the first major Hollywood film to restart production since the coronavirus pandemic shut down film sets worldwide. Theatre and other forms of entertainment have also been shut since last week of March.