The 2009 Qantas Film and Television Awards has received an impressive 639 entries, a clear indication of the industries’ strength and good health, say the awards organisers.

More than 70 judges will assess entries over the next six weeks to name the finalists in the 63 awards categories across News and Current Affairs, General Television, Documentary and Film. 

The awards are organised by the Screen Directors Guild of New Zealand and the New Zealand Television Broadcasters’ Council, and celebrates excellence in the New Zealand film and television industries.

Screen Directors Guild of New Zealand executive director and organising committee co-chair Anna Cahill says the number of entries across a wide range of categories in this year’s awards reflects the strength and diversity of the film and television industries.

“It’s particularly encouraging that the number of entries in the feature film categories is so high,” Ms Cahill says.

“It’s a testing time to be involved in film and television, like many other sectors of the economy. But the number of entries shows that the people who work in our industries believe their efforts are worth recognising and celebrating – and we do too.”

New Zealand Television Broadcasters’ Council chief executive and organising committee co-chair Rick Friesen is thrilled with the number of entries.

“The number and quality of entries is a clear endorsement that the Qantas Film and Television Awards are the gold standard for the industry,” Mr Friesen says.

This year’s awards events will be held at the Civic Theatre in Auckland on 4 and 5 September.