Netflix adaptation of epic California novel ‘East of Eden’ slammed for filming in New Zealand

Source: New York Post

Netflix’s new take on John Steinbeck’s California-set masterpiece “East of Eden” is already stirring controversy — due to the streaming giant’s decision to shoot the Salinas Valley epic over 6,000 miles away in New Zealand. Critics blasted the decision after production transformed parts of Auckland, Dunedin and Oamaru into early 20th-century California, despite the 1952 novel’s deep roots in Steinbeck’s home state. 5 New Zealand has long lured major Hollywood productions with generous government-backed tax rebates, offering international studios up to 20% back on qualifying production costs.