30 years after its original New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) screening, Prince’s 1987 concert film Sign O’ the Times will once again screen in New Zealand. The film has been added as a late confirmation to the programme in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch with one screening only in each city.

In Auckland, Sign O’ the Times will screen as the final film of NZIFF 2018 on Sunday 5 August 8.30pm at The Civic. In Wellington the film will screen on Tuesday 14 August 8.30pm at the Embassy Theatre. Screening details for Christchurch will be confirmed shortly.

“Prince fans – and isn’t that everybody? – are in for a treat at NZIFF. Thirty years after its Auckland International Film Festival debut, Prince’s legendary concert movie escapes music rights limbo just in time to make the perfect late addition to our 50th birthday celebration in Auckland,” says NZIFF Director Bill Gosden.

“Written and directed by Prince, the film is more precious than ever in the wake of Prince’s shocking death, featuring the sensational musician’s otherworldly talents – his voice, that guitar playing and his astounding physicality.” says Gosden.

Filmed in different locations with the band which accompanied Prince on his 1987 Sign O’ the Times tour, and featuring the colourful performer’s frequent costume changes – from Spandex overalls and a white fur coat to a jean jacket and a policeman’s cap, this is more than just another concert movie – you’re seeing music being made. At the time, SKY Magazine hailed the film as “the greatest concert movie ever made”.

Tickets for Sign O’ the Times in Auckland and Wellington are on sale now via www.nziff.co.nz. Christchurch screening and ticket details will be available later this week. 

NZIFF is run by a charitable trust and encourages lively interactions between films, filmmakers and New Zealand audiences in 13 towns and cities around the country. NZIFF 2018 is currently on in Auckland until 5 August, opens in Wellington on Friday 27 July, and opens in Christchurch on Thursday 2 August.