The NSW Government has secured another blockbuster with Disney+ Original series The Artful Dodger the latest large-scale production to be filmed in the State.
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said the series will further cement the State’s reputation as Australia’s premiere filmmaking destination, creating jobs and boosting the NSW economy.
“Thanks to our talented cast and crew and with the tactical support of Screen NSW’s $175 million Made in NSW fund, I am thrilled the NSW Government has secured the Disney+ Original series The Artful Dodger to be filmed right here in NSW,” Mr Franklin said.
“This is a big win for our world-class screen industry that has grown from strength to strength in skill and reputation – as the production gets underway in Sydney and NSW there will be significant economic benefits to filmmakers and the wider economy.”
“The Artful Dodger will provide a meaningful boost through investment and spending, creating more than 170 employment opportunities for local cast and crew, and using the services of local businesses to support the production.”
Set in 1850s Australia, the eight-part scripted series, which received support from Screen NSW’s Made in NSW fund, explores the adult double life of Charles Dickens’ famous prince of thieves – Dodger – now a surgeon, but who can’t shake his predilection for crime. The series is co-created by James McNamara, David Maher and David Taylor.
The Artful Dodger is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and produced by Beach Road Pictures and SPT’s Curio Pictures for Disney+.
Executive Producers, David Maher and David Taylor of Beach Road Pictures welcomed the NSW Government support.
“We’re so grateful for the incredible support from the NSW Government through Screen NSW for The Artful Dodger,” Mr Maher and Mr Taylor said.
“Producing this series at home in NSW offers us world class facilities, the opportunity for locally based cast and crew to work alongside a mix of highly experienced local and international creatives, and access to some of Australia’s most beautiful locations. We couldn’t be more excited.”
Internationally recognised names Thomas Brodie-Sangster and David Thewlis helm the production with Australia’s Maia Mitchell, along with a stellar local line up including Damon Herriman, Miranda Tapsell, Tim Minchin, Susie Porter, Kym Gyngell, Damien Garvey, and more.
The Screen NSW Made in NSW Film fund has attracted over 40 international productions to the State since 2020.