Studios and filmmakers are constantly coming up with new ways to market their movies online, but the deal Baz Luhrmann has struck with Apple is like nothing I’ve ever seen. They’re calling it the Set to Screen series, and they’re including it under the mantle of Apple’s “education” efforts. OK, yes, there’s some education involved, but what it really amounts to is amazing, amazing film promotion.
Luhrmann recorded a series of video podcasts while on the set of his new movie, Australia, set to come out in November. Each podcast focuses on a different element of production, from the set photographer (featured in the newest podcast) to sound recording. Some of the podcasts come with a contest, in which high school and college students are encouraged to make a specific kind of film project. The winner of each contest will win a trip to Australia, and the winner of the final contest will go on publicity rounds with Baz Luhrmann himself. College film students should be doing backflips right about now.
Even if you’re not a student, though, there’s a lot to enjoy in the podcasts. Australia is a World War II-era epic set in the outback, and the shooting locations seen in the podcast must be some of the most gorgeous places in the world. Plus, the film’s stars Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman get plenty of face time, and it’s hard to pick between them and the scenery as to which is more irresistible. Luhrmann himself is the guide through most of the podcasts, and he’s surprisingly personable and funny for someone who’s made a career out of lush, avant garde romances.
Yes, there’s some considerable Apple product placement strewn about, but who seriously hates Apple at this point? The podcasts are worth a view if you’re interested in movies, interested in Australia, or find Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman remotely attractive. Basically, they’re for everyone. And they’re going to turn us into a rabid army of movie fans counting down the minutes until Australia’s release. You’ve been warned.
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