Taika Waititi Adapts Klara and the Sun in New Zealand
The director filmed the adaptation of the Kazuo Ishiguro novel on location in Auckland and Wānaka.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Science Fiction
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Director Taika Waititi has completed his film adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's 2021 novel, Klara and the Sun. The production stars Jenna Ortega as Klara and Amy Adams as Josie's mother.
Why it matters
Waititi chose to film in his home country of New Zealand to be closer to his family, marking his first local production in a decade. The collaboration involved the original author, Kazuo Ishiguro, in the screenplay process.
This production marks Waititi's return to shooting in New Zealand after 10 years, following his 2019 release Jojo Rabbit. The filming effort utilized locations across Auckland and Wānaka.
The players
Taika Waititi
An Academy Award-winning filmmaker and director known for his distinct visual style and work on major studio franchises.
Jenna Ortega
An acclaimed actress who rose to prominence for her leading roles in popular streaming series and horror cinema.
Amy Adams
A highly decorated actress known for her diverse range of roles in both independent dramas and major blockbusters.
Natasha Lyonne
An actress, writer, and director recognized for her influential contributions to television and independent film.
Kazuo Ishiguro
A Nobel Prize-winning novelist whose literary works often explore themes of memory, time, and human identity.
The details
The project features Natasha Lyonne as the store manager and includes Waititi's own children as extras in various street scenes. Waititi also collaborated with Cliff Curtis and Jason Momoa to purchase Studio West in West Auckland in 2026 to facilitate the work.
Timeline
2019: Waititi released Jojo Rabbit.
2026: Waititi purchased Studio West.
October 2026: Promotional details for the film were released.
November 2026: Filming for Very Young Frankenstein is scheduled to begin.
Industry Dynamics
Waititi's return to New Zealand reflects a wider trend of established directors prioritizing regional production hubs to maintain proximity to family. This approach contrasts with the standard Hollywood practice of centralized studio filming, signaling a shift in production flexibility.
Viewers can anticipate a world premiere at the London Film Festival before the film moves to a global release one week later. Access to the film will follow this staggered international rollout pattern.
The takeaway
Filming locally can provide directors with essential support networks that influence both the creative process and the production environment. Fans should watch for upcoming announcements regarding the specific global release dates following the festival premiere.
What happens next
Taika Waititi is scheduled to begin shooting the series Very Young Frankenstein in November 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Science Fiction cinema.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NZ Herald.
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