The Power of The Dog is a 1920 frontier saga starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst that was filmed for Netflix in Dunedin, Oamaru, Alexandra, Central Otago and the Maniototo last year.
Campion’s film reportedly received a four-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival, following its premiere earlier this month, and critics around the world have been lavishing praise on the Western.
Campion said she was amazed the festival went ahead, given the restrictions created by Covid.
"It is special for us film-makers to be here live with audiences and experience what we dream about."
Many critics are saying the win boosts the Kiwi director's chances at the Oscars, where in 1993 she was nominated for best director and best picture for The Piano. That movie also won Campion an Academy Award for best original screenplay, best actress for Holly Hunter and best supporting actress for Anna Paquin.
Film Otago Southland chairman Brad Hurndell said The Power of the Dog had put Otago on Hollywood’s radar.
"Any projects that are successful on that global stage bring a lot of credibility — further credibility — to the region.
"I think Jane Campion’s done a great job of showcasing the region, several times now.
"We’re just going to keep building on that success."
Dunedin City Council film co-ordinator Antony Deaker was delighted to hear of the award.
"A lot of people watching the movie will love the landscapes and architecture of Otago, but I also think it’s a testament to the skill of the crew that worked on the film — that they’ve made such a beautiful film for the director’s vision."
The film is scheduled for release in select theatres in November, and on Netflix from December 1.
