The New Zealand Herald reported that Disney and Walden media began filming the first scene of their much-anticipated movie, Narnia, on Monday, June 28, 2004.

The two media giants chose the old Hobsonville Air Base in New Zealand as the movie’s setting, and cast many high-profile British actors familiar to New Zealanders for the film. Among these are James Cosmo (Troy, Braveheart), James McAvoy (playing Mr. Tumnus), Tilda Swinton, Dawn French and Rupert Everett (Shrek 2) who will be playing the CGI animated character of the Fox.

Kiwi director Andrew Adamson, who also contributed work to the blockbuster-hit Shrek 2, was appointed as the head overseer of the multi-million dollar production of the magical novel-based film.

The actors, now participating in the six-month shooting, will settle in Auckland and then migrate to South Island in mid-October. The actors may also stop by the Czech Republic for the film’s final shooting.