The Reel Deal: Real Talent, Tips, and Tales is a colourful, behind-the-scenes journey into Aotearoa’s celebrated film industry, told from the perspective of the people who paint, build, design, and bring its visual storytelling to life. Part memoir, practical guide, and celebration, it weaves together stories, career journeys, and tips from 50 contributors who have worked across major New Zealand productions, including the Avatar and Hobbit trilogies, King Kong, What We Do in the Shadows, Narnia, The Power of the Dog, Mulan, Thor: Love and Thunder, The Lord of the Rings, and more. Written by veteran scenic, set dec, and props painter Therese Eberhard, the book blends humour, honesty, and decades of experience to highlight the artistry and people behind NZ’s screen success. Through its stories, it encourages readers to not only keep on keeping on but also to find joy in their choices and processes. It takes a village to accomplish the impossible, and the impossible is accomplished daily in the film industry. Accessible and inspiring, The Reel Deal is for aspiring film workers and curious fans alike. This digital version is a fixed-layout EPUB, ideal for viewing complete visual page spreads. It is recommended to use an iPad, laptop, or computer screen.
