A reimagined fantasy adventure series directed by Taika Waititi, and inspired by the 1981 Terry Gilliam cult classic, Time Bandits follows the story of a young history enthusiast who joins a quirky gang of time-travelling thieves, embarking on whimsical journeys through various historical eras. With its unique blend of comedy, fantasy, and adventure, the series brought vibrant historical settings to life with modern visual storytelling techniques.
The Rebel Fleet’s advanced digital imaging, video assist, and post-production services underscores Aotearoa New Zealand’s reputation for technical excellence and production support. As the team behind key components of the series’ visual production, The Rebel Fleet played an essential role in bringing Waititi’s vision to the screen, blending traditional fantasy elements with the modern aesthetic that fans of the director have come to love.
"Winning the HPA Award for our work on Time Bandits is a testament to our team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in technical production,” says Mike Urban, CEO at The Rebel Fleet. “This project allowed us to explore new ways of merging fantasy and history through cutting-edge digital imaging, and it’s an honour to be recognised on this global stage. We’re incredibly proud to represent Auckland’s screen industry and contribute to New Zealand’s reputation for world-class production support.”
“The Rebel Fleet’s win highlights the depth of technical and creative skill in Auckland’s screen sector,” says Matt Horrocks, Manager at Screen Auckland, the regional film office for Tāmaki Makaurau. “The success on Time Bandits reinforces the region’s reputation as a hub of talent and quality within the global screen industry. This award demonstrates how our local expertise can make a significant impact on productions of any scale, and we are incredibly proud of what The Rebel Fleet has accomplished.”
Screen Auckland – part of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the region’s economic and cultural agency – supports the region’s thriving screen industry, fostering growth and enhancing Auckland’s appeal as a filming destination for high-profile international productions. Screen Auckland actively partners with local production companies, providing vital resources, advocacy, and facilitation to ensure seamless and sustainable filming experiences across the region.
Exemplified by The Rebel Fleet’s work on Time Bandits, the Auckland screen sector has a long-standing commitment to excellence, supported by a diverse talent pool, comprehensive studio facilities, and unique locations that accommodate a wide range of storytelling needs.
The HPA Awards are a distinguished honour in the screen industry, recognising technical excellence in categories such as visual effects, colour grading, sound, and editing. The Rebel Fleet’s accomplishment further positions Auckland as an integral part of New Zealand’s screen landscape, reinforcing the region’s commitment to fostering world-leading screen skills and welcoming future productions that contribute to Auckland’s economic and cultural landscape.
