ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the new phenomenon of Pavlova Westerns, films set in the 19th century American West but filmed in New Zealand. Two films are analysed: Good for Nothing and Slow West. These films fashion a different image and sense of place for rural New Zealand, taking advantage of cultural heritage sites from New Zealand’s 19th century history, particularly those associated with the gold rushes. Whilst staying true to the conventions of the Western, these films highlight New Zealand’s frontier history, creating a new version of the cultural landscape post The Lord of the Rings.
