Union urges boycott of hobbit films

An Australian-based union called for an international boycott of the long-delayed production of two "The Hobbit" movies in New Zealand - causing local producers to lash out at its bullying tactics.

Australia's Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance said makers of The Hobbit refused to enter into a union-negotiated agreement and it advised members not to accept work on the planned two-film prequel to the blockbuster Lord of the Rings trilogy due to be filmed in New Zealand.

But Peter Jackson, executive producer of the films and Academy Award-winning director of the trilogy, rejected the union's claims that actors will not be paid under standard union contracts, and could be let go with only a day's notice.

Jackson said he is a proud member of three Hollywood unions and he always honours actors' union conditions.