Soul Doctor, the Broadway movie-musical about the ‘rock star’ Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, and his relationship with music and civil rights icon ...

Soul Doctor, the Broadway movie-musical about the ‘rock star’ Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, and his relationship with music and civil rights icon Dr. Nina Simone, has a one night Fathom Events screenings in over 600 select theaters on June 13.

Note: I was invited as media for screening and cast interview. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

To hear more about turning the musical into a film, I joined a interview panel with

• Lisa Simone (Executive Producer of Soul Doctor as well as Executive Producer of the Emmy and Peabody Award winning, and Academy Award and Grammy nominated Netflix documentary about her mother, WHAT HAPPENED, MISS SIMONE?),
• Dari Carlebach (Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s daughter)
• Danny Wise (Writer and Director).

Take Away Message of Soul Doctor

Danny Wise We really wanted to see more singing and harmony around this country rather than shouting and screaming. And that's really what this movie is about. People think of a movie as a visual experience, this is really an atmosphere at movie in the highest sense of the word.

Lisa Simone Oh, there are quite a few. Starting with joy inspiration, the power of community and coming together. And the fact that so many walls that we erect, whether it's through our vision, how we look different, how we sound different, different backgrounds.

Underneath, all of that there's so much of the sameness, that we all share.

Lisa Simone I believe that's one of the biggest connections that my mother Dr. Nina Simone and Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach had in common. Within their differences there was such a sameness that they recognized in each other.

They influenced each other, inspired each other and they both went on to be prolific presences in the world, whose influence continues to touch the masses today.

How Stage Production Differs from Film

Danny Wise It's not, in the experience. We're very proud and happy, that it's a minimalist production and therefore, you really don't feel this divide of 100 million dollars of special effects coming at you.

You feel like you're the story taking place in the center. Shlomo Carlebach for most of his career would really perform from the front of the stage, and not on the stage. It was a theater in the round.

We presented it as a theater in the round, and if it feels like a theater in the round. And the audience feels safe, part of it and spontaneously part of the theatrical production.

Significance of Releasing Soul Doctor Now

Lisa Simone It's time. There's no better time than the present. Everything happens when it's supposed to. We're here for a reason.

Now the time has come, people perhaps were more ready. Our community is ready,our world is ready, we're ready. The production is ready. And it's being born, in a manner that's shining the light upon it. On a platform that cannot be ignored.

Dari Carlebach Our hearts have been broken over and over again. To let the light in and we're now at a place in our history, where we've all broken open so many times, but all we can do is rise in song.

And build those broken places with harmony. And our job, in this generation, is to create the most infinite endless amount of harmony in ourselves, between our communities, between all of humankind.

And the story allows us to create harmonies in unexpected ways, and it uplifts and brings a whole new way of seeing the world.

SYNOPSIS

Soul Doctor Trailer



The film of Soul Doctor opens on the 10th anniversary of its Broadway premiere.

Soul Doctor tells the story of the beloved yet controversial father of popular Jewish music, Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach. A modern-day troubadour, Shlomo ignited the spirit of millions around the world with his soul-stirring melodies, transformative storytelling, and boundless love.

After his childhood escape from Nazi Germany, the young Rabbi formed an unlikely friendship with musical icon and pioneer, Nina Simone, who introduced him to Soul and Gospel music, and a Jewish music and cultural revival was born.

Fusing his roots with his new inspiration, Shlomo created a revolutionary musical sound, writing songs which continue to be the main body of Jewish musical standards.

The “Jewish Gospel/Soul” experience he introduced to the synagogue worship remains the most popular of services across all denominations of Jewish practice.

Soul Doctor concludes with a historical epilogue showing rare footage, bringing to life Simone, Carlebach, and other characters, created by Colombian-born filmmaker Nicole Fernandez and Somondoco Films.

Stars Tony Award® nominee Josh Young (Broadway’s Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita) as Shlomo, Nya (star of the recent Cleopatra and the Broadway revival of Caroline or Change) as Nina Simone and Emily Padgett (star of Broadway’s Side Show, Rock of Ages, Bright Star, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) as Ruth.

The cast also includes Charlotte Moore (Les Miz, ALW’s Wizard of Oz), C.J. Tyson (Wicked), Rebecca Kritzer (In the Heights), Marvin Meital, Yovel Moss, Allison Poccia, Lital Shalit, Toni Elizabeth White, Luke Wygodny (Once), Jordan Zell, and Marc Zell and original Broadway cast members: Richard Cerato and Abdur-Rahim Jackson (who also choreographs).

The film of Soul Doctor is produced by original Broadway producer/conceiver Jeremy Chess, along with Jerome Levy and Chandra McQueen, with Lisa Simone Executive Producer.

With music by Shlomo Carlebach, lyrics by David Schechter, script and direction by Daniel Wise, and choreographed by Abdur Rahim Jackson (Alvin Ailey, Beyonce “Halo” music video and Superbowl Show).

Learn more, visit - www.fathomevents.com/events/Soul-Doctor

For a peek behind the scenes of Centurion: The Dancing Stallion, releasing on Digital and On Demand April 25, I interviewed Amber Midthunder...

For a peek behind the scenes of Centurion: The Dancing Stallion, releasing on Digital and On Demand April 25, I interviewed Amber Midthunder and Director Dana Gonzales.

Note: I was invited as media for screening and cast interview. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

Centurion: The Dancing Stallion is a tale of overcoming adversity and finding strength from unexpected places. Just based on that, it's a great film for families.

But Centurion also offers a peek into the culture of Mexican horse dancing. So I wanted to ask the duo how they researched and prepared for that.

Preparing for the Role

Amber Midthunder: Learning more about the film, what it was about and having those conversations with Dana to figure out kind what the bones of it were, was kind of how we moved into like exploring in that way.

And then the preparation, we were not afforded a lot of times. So it was pretty short and it was a lot of just witnessing pieces of what the trainers did with the horses. And having them show me little things. Like this is what you do with your hands, do with your feet, be careful, don't do that.

Amber Midthunder: Kind of, learning as we go and using what prep time we had, to try to learn as much as I could. Then we just got into it.

I grew up with horses, but I never did rodeo or anything like that. I just know how to ride western.

Highlighting Native/Mexican Cultures

Amber Midthunder: Well, I am Native American, I'm Lakota Nakota Dakota. I grew up in New Mexico, I'm not Latin. So to be around this culture and to be welcomed in, was really special and amazing.

To be able to witness this whole world and how the people feel about this kind of amazing sport and art form and being trusted with that, was really special.

Filming the Story

Dana Gonzales: I was given the script and told read it and I could do whatever I wanted with it. When I read it, it had so many interesting kind of elements to it, with the storytelling that I'm interested in.

And than going up to this ranch, where our executive producers owned and meeting them and hearing this story, because it's based on a true story. While our storiy is fictional, it is based on this true story.

Dana Gonzales: So hearing more about that, being introduced to centurian, the culture a little bit more, the facilities and be able to tell this story about family, love that triumphs, these are things that I'm interested in filmmaking.

And then being able to to work with Amber and the actors to find this kind of secondary story inside that script, was really a beautiful process, that I think you see the movie.

Researching Mexican Cultures

Dana Gonzales: I went to one of the big events. And then spent in napa, where we shot. Then I grew up in the Mexican culture, so I instantly kind of know that world.

My father's Mexican and I could be dropped into it and I'm very comfortable with it. So, I think the more i was dropped into it there, the more it was accessible and the more it felt real.

I think for all the people in the Latin community that will watch this film, they're gonna feel very at home with it because I know I do.

Message of the Film

Amber Midthunder: I think there's a lot for people to take away, and that's what's beautiful about it. Whatever you want to focus on, I think you can. And ultimately it's a story of of hope. And of love. I think there's so much love in the movie.

There's obviously like a young love story, but there's also family, and there's the relationship between Alicia and Centurion, and as much as there is difficulty there, I think there's just as much joy.

Dana Gonzales: Also triumph and overcoming. You know, over overcoming this disease and even bringing some awareness to it. And supporting very strong families in this world, and that's what's going to create the foundation for future generations.

So anything that has that element in it. It's always going to be a win for me.


SYNOPSIS

The journey begins as Ellissia (Midthunder) adopts a white stallion to train in the art of Mexican horse dancing. As she starts teaching the handsome but previously abused Centurion, Ellissia falls critically ill, which keeps her from competing in a celebrated equestrian event.

Under the watchful eyes of her father (Zane), new ranch hand Danny (Aramis Knight) steps in as trainer, hoping to win the competition — and, perhaps, Ellissia’s heart.

Cast: Amber Midthunder (Prey, “Roswell: New Mexico”, “Legion”), Aramis Knight (“Into the Badlands”), Michael Cimino (“Love, Victor”) Patricia DeLeon (Station 19), Sal Lopez (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), and Billy Zane (Titanic)

Centurion: The Dancing Stallion (2023) Official Trailer



Executive Producers: Nancy White Gamble, George Gamble, Rob Schneider
Co-Executive Producer: Billy Zane
Produced by: Dana Gonzales, Boon Collins, Randolf Turrow, David Tanner
Written by: Boon Collins

Learn more, visit - www.lionsgate.com

Focus Features releases "A Thousand and One" in theaters Friday, March 31 and offers so much. From the heartache of a mother try...

Focus Features releases "A Thousand and One" in theaters Friday, March 31 and offers so much.

From the heartache of a mother trying to care for her child against all odds, to a peek into the history of how the Harlem area has changed, to the over all storyline of a family is what you make it.

Note: I was invited as media for screening and cast interview. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

#AThousandAndOne is an amazing mix of storylines that weave in and out to touch you in so many ways. To get a peek into how this was done, I interviewed A.V. Rockwell (writer and director) and Teyana Taylor (actress playing Inez).

During the interview, I could really feel their love and support for what it means to be a mother during that time (and even now) and how living in NYC, specifically Harlem, affects that.

Using New York City as a Backdrop

A.V. Rockwell: It was complicated, it was impassioned, but there's a lot of pain in it. In order to express pain, you know, there has to be a love that comes with it.

So I felt the movie, in my way is a love letter. A love letter to black women but a heartbreak letter to New York City. It was complicated for sure, just in reconciling what I felt our relationship is as a black community to New York City.

A.V. Rockwell: Because I feel like, damn New York is so much a part of who I am, part of my dna, and I also feel we've contributed so much to the city and what's made it a special place that it is. So how do I reconcile, the fact that this place that i love, that is home to me, never loved me, and that was that was a lot.

Teyana Taylor: One it was amazing to come back home. I definitely think it was a bitter sweet situation, like filming, the art direction, dressing up the block of how it used to be when it was beautiful and raw. That was the sweet part of it.

And a bitter part was when it was all undressed and stripped to it looked like now. It's like your childhood was taking away from you, a little bit. All that rawness and the color a lot of it was was gone, so it was definitely bitter sweet, to come back home and see that.

A.V. Rockwell: Yeah, like celebrating what we love about it. Especially in that first half of the film. But then it got painful once we started having to strip it away and say farewell to that.

Inez Backstory & "Kidnapping" Issues

A.V. Rockwell: To me, this was about a woman who was desperate to be loved, specifically a black woman. Because at every level of society, we just never feel like we're fully enough. Everybody's love for us is conditional, you know.

So I think, Inez's journey is really like a questionary tale, of like a worst case scenario of somebody trying to find that , because who's gonna love you more, with unconditionalness, then a child.

Teyana Taylor: Also keep in mind that she came up the same way, it's not like she's this random lady that came up and been stalking the kid, like I'm gonna take you. She was the kid that was left out on the street corners, that was in the foster care system.

So if she is following his story, which was a very public story throughout the neighborhood, is wasn't something too far fetch for her to do. Because she's seen this happen before but to herself.

So she's like how can I help? And in what way? As a mother, as a woman, like what are you gonna do? Like, I'll see when I see you?

A Thousand & One "Say Bye" Official Video Clip



A.V. Rockwell: Yeah, she was trying to save him. It came from a deep compassionate place, and i think that by saving Terry, she was trying to save herself in many ways.

Like she (Inez) said, "I saw so much of myself in you (Terry)" and that's the reality. Because as Teyana said so much of their experience was the same experience.

A.V. Rockwell: And she does make a few attempts to like share the secrets, so to speak, that she has with him about those early years throughout the film. So it's not like she is trying to be super malicious with it, obviously, it's a hard thing to share with him while she wasn't there, amongst other things. But she doesn't attempt to. I think it's one of the movies, you got to watch more then once.

Teyana Taylor: I think Inez has a deep story, and it's a lot more than the movie could even feature. So the way you hit for us, is a little bit different because there's a lot of stuff that was taken out as well. But she definitely try to tell him, But I think with Inez it was a damn if you, damn if you don't.

The Message to Viewers

Teyana Taylor: I think it's a true eye opener for a lot of these youngins. And even for us and our journey because in in 1996, I was Terry's age. So to play a role like that, was the first time I got to actually see the real sacrifices and all the struggles that my mom has been through.

Things I didn't understand at six-year-old, so I think it's a true eye opener because of course, she's moved her life around, to make sure I had a better life. Which now I'm in a position to make sure my kids have an even better life.

Teyana Taylor: We all appreciate our moms, but we never really understood the meaning of, like, you only get one mom. But playing Inez, I get to see what it was like in the 80s and the 90s and like the real struggle.

Because, no matter what status you are, being a mother is the biggest job. It's bigger then being famous, bigger than being rich, and even bigger then having a husband or a partner that can help you. Because you mama bear regardless, so it's gonna always be a bigger job to be a mom.

Teyana Taylor: At the same out the time spread love to the guys that are stepping up. They're not perfect but, they come together and figure it out for the kids. So for me, I think it's an eye opener up for a lot of the youngins and even some of these kids now, who's getting out of control.

So I think it's an eye opener and definitely a love letter to all moms, and also just to let them know we see you, we hear you.

Teyana Taylor: Inez is in so many of the woman's, in my life, life. I see alot of Inez in alot of women. It's my mom, its my aunt, my grandman, it's our community. So the fact that she can endure all that, and still come out with a smile at the end of the movie, I think it's big because, it goes to show that we're survivors.

And sometimes it's not about choice, it's like the survival mode. So it's really that love letter to be seen, like keep your head up for real.

A.V. Rockwell: I agree with everything she said, especially just relating to the topic of moms and mothers. I wrote it through the lines of mothers and sons. But even as daughters, who grew up with the mom, who was either young when she had them, or just figuring out life at whatever stage, I definitely related to that, just in terms of women in my life, who I've seen.

Also, people who struggle with relationship with because of their parents, because they didn't understand. So I did hope that this movie would be healing. And eye opening within those relationship dynamics.

A.V. Rockwell: But I think beyond that, is the story in many ways about like unrequited love. Like whether that's between people, how we related to each other or how they relate to their their homes, the cities that they live in.

So I think, in so many ways you see these characters. Inez you see her fighting for that. Within the relationships that she has with the men in her life and just wanting to feel more seen in society, period.

A.V. Rockwell: But then with this family, you see how they how they interact with a city, that they are very optimistic at first, that as a city evolves, that is going to evolve in a way that elevates them too. But they don't get that, you know?

I think that's definitely a huge bedrock in this film. Just trying to find that thread of like the love that I'm giving to this person, or this place...is it and will it get returned?

SYNOPSIS

**Winner of the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic at the Sundance 2023 Film Festival**

A Thousand and One follows unapologetic and free-spirited Inez (Teyana Taylor), who kidnaps her six-year-old son Terry from the foster care system. Holding onto their secret and each other, mother and son set out to reclaim their sense of home, identity, and stability, in a rapidly changing New York City.

Starring Teyana Taylor, Will Catlett, Josiah Cross, Aven Courtney, Aaron Kingsley Adetola

A Thousand and One Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters March 31



Written and Directed by A.V. Rockwell
Produced by Eddie Vaisman, Julia Lebedev, Lena Waithe, Rishi Rajani, Brad Weston

Learn more, visit - www.focusfeatures.com/a-thousand-and-one

Facebook - www.facebook.com/AThousandAndOneFilm
Twitter - www.twitter.com/AThousandOne
Instagram - www.instagram.com/AThousandAndOneFilm

In the short film AYSHA, director Cengiz Akaygun shares a story of two young girls living through a harrowing war, and a choice their mother...

In the short film AYSHA, director Cengiz Akaygun shares a story of two young girls living through a harrowing war, and a choice their mother is forced to make.

I was able to screen the film and was amazed how powerful it was for such a short film. AYSHA offers a look into a family trying to survive in a country, when a war has taken much from them. And still wants more. What is a parent to do to safe guard her child's life and future?

I was so touched by the story-line of a mother's choice, a choice that her child battles to understand and accept. I was able to discuss the message of the film during my interviewed with Director Cengiz Akaygun.

The Take Away Message

Cengiz Akaygun: AYSHA has several ways how you can understand the film. I think one important message is that wars senseless and destroys lives of innocent people, especially children.

Look at how many non-essential wars are still happening, even today in our time.

Process of Filming

Cengiz Akaygun: In total we had 3 filming days and one test day. But we could not use all the days. Normally a shooting days has 8 or 10 hours, but I had two children on set so it's not possible to work with them so long.

And another problem was the sun, we had to work with the sun hours. The sun hours we need are early in the morning to late afternoon. So per day we had 3 or 4 hours. so it was not easy to get what we want.

Cengiz Akaygun: Also from time to time, we had rain. That was the difficult time of working on set. But at the end of the day, we did it.

I worked with a small team because of limited funding, but we had a lot of supporters like friends, family, companies and so on who helped us. Otherwise it was not possible.

Location of Filming

Cengiz Akaygun: In the beginning I had the plan to shoot the movie in South of Italy, there was a little earth quake city from the middle 60's. The city is completely destroyed from the earthquake and is not livable. It was perfect for us.

The plan was to replace this region of Italy with a city in Syria. But the plan failed because the pandemic happened. We couldn't shoot the movie because all the airports and borders were closed.

Cengiz Akaygun: After 6 months later of waiting, I decided to find a location in Germany and shoot with a small team there. Because of that, the biggest challenge was to find a small backyard of a house, which seems like a house in Syria.

At first I couldn't find something like that, but later I had the idea to ask house demolition companies, because I thought these houses are going to be destroyed anyway. So before they destroy these houses, I can do with them what I want.

Cengiz Akaygun: I found a company and a house with plans to be destroyed. The owner of this company was also interested in this story and help us a lot. This man wasn't just the owner of this demolition company, he was also a member of the city council. Coincidentally his part had a candidate for that year, and guess what her name was....AYSHA

I understood why he also loved my story so much! *laughing*


AYSHA Trailer - Short Movie

AYSHA Trailer - Short Movie from Free Monkey on Vimeo.

SYNOPSIS

AYSHA a small, rebellious girl wearing a full-body veil, and her sister are put to a religious test in a backyard in Rojava (Syria) by a covered woman. However, the strong-headed Aysha is struggling with identity and decides to take a stand.

Writer, director and producer Cengiz Akaygün works focus on socially critical themes. He has received numerous awards for his short films. In 2020, he was nominated twice for the Human Rights Film Award in Germany.

For his last short film AYSHA he received the Short Film Award at the 55th HOF International Film Festival in Germany. Currently, Aysha is in the pre-selection for the German Short Film Award. Now, this ground-breaking film is in consideration for an OSCAR®.

The cinematography was created by Kevin Hartfiel and the musical composition is by Conrad Oleak.

Learn more, visit - www.freemonkey.art

Facebook - www.facebook.com/freemonkey.art
Instagram - www.instagram.com/freemonkeyfilm

When I first saw the trailer for VANQUISH, I was excited. A mom taking on the bad guys so she can get back her daughter. But not just any mo...

When I first saw the trailer for VANQUISH, I was excited. A mom taking on the bad guys so she can get back her daughter. But not just any mom, a mom who is motorcycle riding, bad guy beating up and taking ALL the money.

So when I had the chance to interview Director George Gallo, of course I did. I wanted to know why he chose such a powerful character for the movies story-line.

Note: I was invited as media to the movie screening and film makers roundtable. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

Why did you decided to have a tough mother story-line versus just a regular woman?

George Gallo: In all honesty these movies have been done a lot. The mother doing anything she can to protect the daughter. Part of the story-line is that she's just a badass. She goes around town during the course of the night, she kills a lot of bad guys.

She's not a great person herself. She has a very checkered past. But I wanted to try to make it believable. When we were thinking of who can play the part, we taught how about Ruby Rose.

I believe that she's not afraid of anyone. She's not afraid of these people. When they threaten her, she doesn't care. She'll just grab a gun and start shooting.

Ruby has an interesting characteristic as an actor, which is she's very very tough but she's also very vulnerable. So those two things together really helped the movie.

When the film starts, it feels like we're jumping right into the action, was that deliberately done?

George Gallo: Yes, we were thinking about letting the audience catch up kind of vibe. It's like your getting dropped into this world very early on, starting with Morgan Freeman's character being in a moment of crisis.

It was definitely intended. You are forced to keep up with the movie, as opposed to spoon feeding you so much information.

It was something we all came up with together, the actors, etc.  Let the movie just start on this peculiar night and during the course of the night, let the story unfold.

While the movie does have a serious tone, anything fun happen with the cast while filming?

George Gallo: This is my third movie with Morgan (Freeman). Morgan and I have literally became best friends. Since Morgan is already my buddy, we're always cutting up on set. So that part of it is already fun.

And Ruby is a cut-up. Her and Morgan got along like that (finger snap). They were having a great time challenging each other as actors. Ruby is tough and Morgan was like I liker her. It was a lot of fun to watch those two together. Lot of it comes out in the movie.

How was the process of directing Vanquish?

George Gallo: A lot of crazy stuff happen on the set. Writing the movie was simple enough. Sam Bartlett wrote the first pass. I wrote the second pass. I gave it to Morgan. Since he lives in Mississippi, we shot it there so he can be close to home.

But while we were there, we got two hurricane hit. Plus we were shooting during the height of COVID-19. So we had to do the COVID test every morning and everybody had all that stuff on.

I had a mask and the plastic thing on. I looked like a beekeeper. I had all that stuff. The gloves and the little mitts on the shoes. Normally I'm use to looking at the monitor or I'd run over to the actors, but I couldn't do that. I had a walkie-talkie because every body had to stay in their spaces.

George Gallo: But just before starting to shoot we got hit with a hurricane, so everybody had to pack up and leave. Then we came back and was shooting, then another hurricane came. We had to pack up and leave again. We had only two more days left to shoot.

So the movie looks very fluid but it really wasn't. A lot of starting and stopping, starting and stopping.

What do you want people to take away from Vanquish?

George Gallo To be honest with you, it's just pure entertainment. We knew from the beginning this movie is just a fun ride with a surprise ending. It's like 90mins of forget your problems.

I make a lot of movies, most of the movies I've made are comedies. So I come from a place of loving entertainment. Life is hard, when I sit down to watch a movie, I want to forget stuff. I don't want to get reminded that everything sucks.

I want to have a good time, I want to laugh, I want to live vicariously through other people. So that what this whole thing was meant to be.

SYNOPSIS

IN SELECT THEATERS: April 16, 2021
ON DEMAND AND DIGITAL: April 20, 2021
ON BLU-RAY AND DVD: April 27, 2021

From the director of Double Take, Middle Men, and The Poison Rose comes this stylish, glossy action-thriller starring Morgan Freeman (Se7en) and Ruby Rose ("Orange Is the New Black") that shows what desperation can drive a person to do.

A mother, Victoria (Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but retired cop Damon (Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding her daughter hostage. Now, Victoria must use guns, guts, and a motorcycle to take out a series of violent gangsters — or she may never see her child again.

Starring: Morgan Freeman (Damon), Ruby Rose (Victoria), Patrick Muldoon (Agent Monroe), Nick Vallelonga (Detective Stevens), Chris Mullinax (Detective Kehoe), Dylan Flashner (Detective Childs), Paul Sampson (B.J.), Julie Lott (Governor Ann Driscoll), Bill Luckett (Father Thomas)

Vanquish (2021 Movie) Official Trailer



Directed By: George Gallo
Screenplay By: George Gallo and Sam Bartlett

To learn more, visit - www.lionsgate.com/movies/vanquish

In connection with The Croods: A New Age home release this month, we attended Universal Pictures Home Entertainment’s “Camp Croods” virtual ...

In connection with The Croods: A New Age home release this month, we attended Universal Pictures Home Entertainment’s “Camp Croods” virtual event and got a first look at fun activities families can join.

Note: This posted was written in partnership with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment for the films home release. I was invited as media to the virtual preview. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own

Since we're fans of the films, we enjoyed being part of "Camp Croods". But we're also big fans of going to the museums and learning cool things. It was a real treat for us to get an in depth look into the museum and the programs they have to engage families.


During our virtual “Camp Croods: at the La Brea Tar Pits" preview there was a lot of interactive activities. We even had a chance to ask questions to the The Croods film makers, story artists as well as the "Camp Croods" Smithsonian Natural Museum Staff.

My son was so excited when his question to Director, Joel Crawford got picked to be answered.

Daniel (MommyFactor): What made you want to do Guys backstory, instead of doing another Croods adventure?

Joel Crawford (Croods Director): It felt like the first Croods was so much Epp and Grug story, since we go to see them meet Guy. But I remember watching the first Croods and thinking, it's so interesting that Guy's been traveling as a kid his whole life.

So when we approached the second Croods film, I wanted to see where he came from. And ultimately The Croods: New Age is about seeing things from someone else's point of view and meeting different people.

So it seemed like the right way to start the movie, from Guys point of view.

It was fun to interview everyone since we learned a few things about making The Croods: A New Age film, how animals today connect to the prehistoric times and SO much more!

Here are a few highlights from the virtual event
Director, Joel Crawford shared there was 100's of creatures, including a Rumbble Bee and a Kangadillo, created for The Croods film and showed us a few, while explaining what made them unique.


Paleontologists, Laura shared how they find and dig up bones, including real life bones of Saber-tooth Tigers. She also shared some of the challenges they face while figuring out how to put the bones together.


Animator, Heidi Jo Gilbert taught us step by step how to draw Chunky (we love him!) while sharing how fun it was to create new characters and see how they'd fit into the world of The Croods. Her favorite character is Dawn, who was inspired by her nieces and nephews.

There was a lot more interactive moments I could share, but I don't want to tell you everything! I'd rather you join in and experience "Croods Camp" with your family! Here's how!

La Brea Tar Pits, part of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC), and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) have partnered with Universal Pictures Home Entertainment to bring families and kids “Camp Croods,” based on the DreamWorks Animation family film The Croods: A New Age.

The two separate interactive programs will feature hands-on activities and scientific investigation to explore the Ice Age, human origins and fate of saber-toothed cats.

Families will have the chance to meet real-life paleontologists and archaeologists, participate in DIY art projects, explore virtual tar pits (La Brea Tar Pits camp), take a virtual tour of the Human Origins exhibition (NMNH camp) and experience drawing demonstrations that bring the fan favorite prehistoric Croods characters to life.

Camp Croods at La Brea Tar Pits

• Thursday, February 11, 2021, 3pm-4:30pm PT / 6pm-7:30pm EST
• Saturday, February 13, 2021, 10-11:30am PT / 1pm-2:30pm EST
• FREE. Registration required.
• RSVP - www.tarpits.org/campcroods

Camp Croods at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

• Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 6pm-7pm ET
• FREE. Registration required.
• RSVP - www.s.si.edu/croods

After learning so many cool things, I'm sure your family will enjoy watching The Croods: A New Age in a new and exciting way.

The Croods: A New Age is available now on Digital and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-Ray™ and DVD February 23, 2021 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.

To learn more, visit - www.dreamworks.com/croods

Facebook - www.facebook.com/TheCroods
Twitter - www.twitter.com/Dreamworks
Instagram - www.instagram.com/thecroods


#TarPits
Facebook: @tarpits
Twitter: @labreatarpits
Instagram: @thelabreatarpits


#Smithsonian
Facebook: @SmithsonianNMNH @Smithsonian
Twitter: @NMNH @Smithsonian
Instagram: @smithsoniannmnh @smithsonian

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey releases on Netflix and it's a great holiday film for all families to enjoy. To get a behind-the-scen...

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey releases on Netflix and it's a great holiday film for all families to enjoy. To get a behind-the-scene peek into the making of Jingle Jangle, I joined a virtual roundtable interview with David Talbert (director) & Lyn Sisson-Talbert (producer). It was such a treat.

Note: I was invited as media to the movie screening and film makers roundtable. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

Here is what they shared about Netflix's Jingle Jangle.

Since this is a holiday themed film, my first question is how they decided what "holiday themes" to keep for the film, while letting go of others.

Picking Jingle Jangle Holiday Themes

David Talbert: For me, it's not as much a holiday movie as much as a movie that takes place during the holidays. The holidays are always portrayed as the happiest times, but it's also times that has the most pain it in too. We remember people that was once here, that are no longer here. Or you remember that toy that you didn't get.

The tradition is really family, is the biggest thing to take away from this for me. The tradition of being able to restore the family. For 22 years with my wife, we've had wonderful family traditions, just she and I.

Then when my son came, she brought traditions from what she did as a child. I brought all the traditions of what I experienced as a child. I think holidays are really family and connecting. I think that's what the film shows.

Lyn Sisson-Talbert: We wanted to create a tradition, as well because this is the type of film that you get together with your family and watch. To be able to have something like this, our goal was to have that classic holiday piece that you can sit down with your friends and family, year after year and watch.

Inspiration for Jingle Jangle

David Talbert: It was a poem I wrote and that was kind of the spirit of the film. Really it's a film about love, humanity, family and finding your mojo again. So that's what inspired me. Love is the inspiration for most of the work that I create.

Importance of Including STEM Elements

David Talbert: I think it's important to show not only the performing arts elements of song and dance, but to really show that all kids are not only magical, but also mathematic, scientific and innovative.

I think to inspire young girls and boys all around the world to kinda of break out of what would be stereotypical, what would be expected. There's really no ceiling.

Look at the generation that going to be watching this. They're going to say that there's nothing that I can't accomplish. I think it's just important to put those kind of image out into the world.

Lyn Sisson-Talbert: We want kids to find they're "square root of possible". We want them to figure out, what is their formula to make things successful. And that's the theme throughout.

We had to push through to make this film happen and we want them to find, that "square root of possible".

I'm a bit of a nerd and geek when it comes to that stuff. So we loved wrapping it around such a lush story and a beautiful setting, to where kids will be like "I want to do that too, I like math also, this looks fun and good".

Anyway to encourage them to like homework, to like math, we're going to try to find a way.

Adding Elements from Different Films

David Talbert: For me growing up watching films, my favorite was Willy Wanka and The Chocolate Factory, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Original Dr. Dolittle, The Wiz, all these were my films growing up.

Anything you watch as a kid, they inspire you, they influence you. And I just wanted to have something for this generation. I wanted all people of colors and background to be represented in worlds of wonder.

Lyn Sisson-Talbert: I loved Annie growing up. The curly red hair. Mary Poppins was a favorite also. I just loved being in that imaginary world with songs that you could sing in the mirror to yourself. All things that we loved to do as a kid.

But as David said it was really important to show a world of all colors. Especially something that our son can see himself in, and feel like he can be magical. So that was the real thing, how do we bring this world together today?

The take away message from Jingle Jangle

David Talbert: Jeronicus journey is a faith journey. It's trying to believe in yourself. It's not about religion but it's about trying to reconnect with what's in you.

A lot of things as adults, I wrote that character as me, cause a lot of times you go through life and you lose that faith and you stop believe in things. But things have worked all along, they've just been waiting for you to believe in them.

I think that's a message for everyone, I think a message adults. Children will get that as they get older, but I think it's a message for everyone. Which is spiritual, which is moral but I think everyone can wrap their minds around it.

Lyn Sisson-Talbert: Also, we want to take away forgiveness. And helping those who's light has maybe nee dimmed. Help them make it shine bright again. You want your kids to be good kids and you want to raise good and kind people.

I think that's really important. We need a little more kindness in the world today. So that was a big take a way for us.

A musical adventure and a visual spectacle for the ages, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a wholly fresh and spirited family holiday event.

Set in the gloriously vibrant town of Cobbleton, the film follows legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle (Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker) whose fanciful inventions burst with whimsy and wonder.

But when his trusted apprentice (Emmy winner Keegan-Michael Key) steals his most prized creation, it’s up to his equally bright and inventive granddaughter (newcomer Madalen Mills) — and a long-forgotten invention — to heal old wounds and reawaken the magic within.

From the imagination of writer-director David E. Talbert and featuring original songs by John Legend, Philip Lawrence, Davy Nathan, and "This Day" performed by Usher and Kiana Ledé, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey reminds us of the strength of family and the power of possibility.

Cast: Forest Whitaker, Madalen Mills, Keegan-Michael Key, Sharon Rose, Phylicia Rashad, Anika Noni Rose, Kieron Dyer, Justin Cornwell, Lisa Davina Phillip, Hugh Bonneville

Netflix Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey | Everything is Possible | Official Trailer |



Written and Directed by David E. Talbert
Produced by Lyn Sisson-Talbert, p.g.a., David E. Talbert, p.g.a., Kristin Burr, p.g.a., John Legend, Mike Jackson, David McIlvain

To learn more, visit - www.netflix.com/title/80232043

To celebrate SPIES IN DISGUISE being release digitally on Movies Anywhere, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD, I'm sharing a few facts I le...

To celebrate SPIES IN DISGUISE being release digitally on Movies Anywhere, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD, I'm sharing a few facts I learned during my behind-the-scenes experience at Blue Sky Studios in Greenwich, CT

Note: I was invited by 20th Century Studios as media for the press tour. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own


During my exclusive tour at Blue Sky Studios, I interviewed the filmmakers and animators, watched “making of” presentations, and even learned how to draw Lance, the star pigeon of "Spies in Disguise".

It was a day filled with lots of cool experiences that I know you'll enjoy reading about before, during or after you watch "Spies in Disguise" at home with your family.

So here are a few "Behind-the-Scenes" Facts for Spies in Disguise

A Spy Movie for Kids

Directors Troy Quane and Nick Bruno were excited at the prospect of making, what they believed could be, a kid’s first introduction on to spy movies. It was important to them that “Spies in Disguise” had all the familiar elements of the genre: exotic international locales, dazzling cinematography, big action set pieces, futuristic gadgetry and a great score with a memorable theme.

Says Bruno, “We didn’t want to make this a spoof. We wanted to make this a legitimate spy movie that just happens to be animated.”

Adds Quane, “We both embraced the crazy idea – a man turns into a pigeon, which is insane.

They then imagined what would happen if they were to replace the heroes of successful spy movies with a pigeon, and what they discovered was that the more grounded and cool the trappings were, the funnier it was with a pigeon in the center of it all.

Finding the Right Walter and Lance

In addition to being a spy movie, “Spies in Disguise” is a buddy comedy with humor from the differences between its two main characters; Lance and Walter.

“It was a dream come true when he (Will Smith) came on board to the project. As an actor, he really cares about stories and storytelling and making the movie as best as it can. He was a collaborator the whole way through and really helped to shape Lance’s character.” said Bruno

Finding "Walter" was more challenging because they didn’t want him to be the stereotypical computer scientist nerd or the butt of the joke.

"So it was really important to us that he be affirmational, so kids will go to see the film initially wanting to be like a Lance Sterling, but realizing that the hero is really inside them, like Walter Beckett.” Bruno explains

“Trying to find that balance was really tough, but once we met with Tom Holland, we knew we had found our Walter. Tom has a charm and an earnestness about him that brought Walter to life.” Quane explains


One of the activities during my tour was meeting with animators Ty Carter and Graham Silva to learn how they gave the pigeons personality.

They explained how each pigeon had their own "style" of drawing shape and coloring. Even thought they were drawing a pigeon, they still aimed to keep certain traits for Lance as a human for Lance as a pigeon. Like his signature bow tie!


Then we learned a quick step by step on drawings Lance. While my pigeon lance came out OK, I confess watching Ty and Graham draw is much better then trying to draw myself. While it was a supper fun exercise, I learned that it's a lot of work that goes into drawing ALL the characters for different scene. Lots and Lots of work.

Why a Pigeon?

What was genius about the script, and therefore, made Walter’s idea so brilliant, is that pigeons are actually amazing creatures, and they are the perfect disguise!

Bruno explains, “They’re in every city around the world. No one pays pays attention to them. Nobody even knows that they’re there. So they’re hiding in plain sight. Because they have eyes on the side of their head, they can see in 360 degrees, which means that at any given time, they can see your face and their butt. And you can’t sneak upon them.”


Concurs Quane. “They’re one of the fastest birds in the world. But because they’re so fast, they see at a faster rate of speed than we do, so everything to them feels slow motion. We would always refer to that as Pigeon Bullet Time. They see UV light, bands of light that we can’t see with the human eye.”

Quane continues, “On the surface, it seems like a joke, but really this is the best cover for a spy. No one knows you’re there. You’ve got all these built-in gadgets. It’s actually genius, as are all of Walter’s other gadgets.”

The Look of Spies in Disguise

“Spies in Disguise” has its own unique style, design and color palette, which helps it stand out from the other Blue Sky Studios films.

The film’s cool spy base, in keeping with the whole idea of espionage where things are hidden before your eyes, is concealed under the reflection pool of the Washington Monument. So it’s in sight, but never seen.

Thought went into the colors and the lighting used in the film. Production designer Michael Knapp developed a color language where warmer oranges and yellows represent teamwork and community. A warm shade of turquoise represent The Agency, whereas a cool shade of blue is isolating, which is why Lance’s tux is that color, he’s a man who “flies solo.”

The camera work in the film was designed to ground the movie in reality and to stand alongside the action-packed modern espionage movie. Care was taken to emulate the type camera moves that can be achieved in live-action iconic spy movies of the ‘60’s.

Now you can experience the thrills of SPIES IN DISGUISE released digitally on Movies Anywhere, 4K Ultra HDTM, Blu-ray and DVD on March 10.




The SPIES IN DISGUISE Blu-ray bonus features include multiple making-of featurettes and two awesome music videos. Additionally, the Blu-ray edition of SPIES IN DISGUISE includes “Super Secret Spy Mode,” an immersive, in-movie experience that takes you deeper into the story with Easter eggs, fun facts, and behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the film.

SYNOPSIS

In this high-flying animated comedy, super spy Lance Sterling (Will Smith) and scientist Walter Beckett (Tom Holland) are almost exact opposites. Lance is smooth, suave and debonair. Walter is none of the above. But this unlikely duo must team up for the ultimate mission to save the world when a “biodynamic concealment” experiment transforms Lance into a brave, fierce, majestic...pigeon!


Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Features:

• Super-Secret Spy Mode
• Infiltrating Blue Sky Studios
• The Top Secret Guide to Gadgets
• “Then There Were Two” Music Video
• “Freak of Nature” Music Video
• Making the Soundtrack “Then There Were Two”
• Making the Soundtrack “Freak of Nature”
• “Lunch Break”* (Available on Digital Only )
• Gallery
• Color Keys and Moment Paintings
• Character Designs
• Locations
• Props and Gadgets Concept Art

To learn more, visit -

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SpiesInDisguise
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SpiesInDisguise
Instagram: www.instagram.com/spiesindisguise

In connection with Disneynature’s film “Penguins” opening in theaters this week, I joined around-table interview with the filmmakers to lear...

In connection with Disneynature’s film “Penguins” opening in theaters this week, I joined around-table interview with the filmmakers to learn about Steve, a 5-year-old Adélie penguin, who goes on a journey during the icy Antarctic spring to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family.

While it seems like a simple story, there's actually alot that goes into capturing it all on film. I'm grateful to Lastair Fothergill (Director), Jeff Wilson (Director), Roy Conli (Producer) and Popi Borboroglu (Global Penguin Society) who took time to share some "behind-the-scenes info with me.

About Steve the Penguin

The filmmakers knew they wanted to tell the story of a new father—so finding a young male penguin was important. But what makes Steve, Steve?

“He’s becoming a father for the first time. He returns to the place where he was a chick to build a home and find a mate. It’s so fun to watch Steve compete with all the other penguins to set up his nest and win his mate. It’s hard not to relate to this guy” says producer Roy Conli.

“He’s feisty. He’s full of character, and in a sea of penguins, he’s the guy performing” says director Alastair Fothergill.

“This guy has a big challenge. He has to find some real estate within the breeding colony and build an appealing nest while every other male is trying to do the same thing. It’s that classic issue of keeping up with the Joneses that we might deal with in our own neighborhoods. In some ways, penguins are very similar because they’re so competitive over their nest sites and rock collections” says director Jeff Wilson.

The Conservation Tie-In

For every ticket sold opening week (April 17-23, 2019), Disneynature will make a donation to the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) to help protect penguins across the southern hemisphere.

“People love penguins,” says Dr. Pablo Borboroglu, founder and president of the Global Penguin Society (GPS). “We feel attracted and emotionally connected to them. It could be that we feel attracted by their devotion to their partners and offspring, because they have to make a living, provide for their chicks and commute to find food.

While there are different types of penguins, the Adele were chosen because they are affected by global issues. While watching the story of Steve, audiences will not only be entertained by also exposed to the issues that affect the penguins.

Sometimes people don't have access to nature and animals. But films like these give people access, which leads to awareness. To support those looking for more information, there's educational guide and activity sheet.



SYNOPSIS

Narrated by Ed Helms (“The Office,” “The Hangover” trilogy,”The Daily Show with John Stewart”), Disneynature’s all-new feature film “Penguins” is a coming-of-age story about an Adélie penguin named Steve who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family.

None of it comes easily for him, especially considering he's targeted by everything from killer whales to leopard seals, who unapologetically threaten his happily ever after. From the filmmaking team behind “Bears” and “Chimpanzee,” Disneynature’s “Penguins” opens in theaters and in IMAX® April 17, 2019.


Facebook: www.facebook.com/Disneynature
Twitter: www.twitter.com/Disneynature
Instagram: www.instagram.com/disneynature

Now that ANT-MAN AND THE WASP has released in theaters, fans of the film will probably have a lot of comments for Director Peyton Reed, abou...

Now that ANT-MAN AND THE WASP has released in theaters, fans of the film will probably have a lot of comments for Director Peyton Reed, about the overall story-line, which was great and the ending credit scene, which was...so not great!

Note: Marvel Studios, Freeform and Disney Junior invited me on this all expense paid trip to Los Angeles for the Ant-Man and The Wasp Event. While I will share different events and activities during the trip, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.



After screening the film for the L.A. #AntManandTheWaspEvent press junket, I couldn't wait to hear what Director Peyton Reed had to say about the scenes that made us go "aaaawwww" and the other that made us go "urggggghhhh!"

The Avengers: Infinity War Tie-in Moment

Peyton Reed: It was not completely planned in the beginning. We knew we were gonna have to deal with that thing at some point in some way. Actually, we weren't sure at the beginning.

We knew that our movie was gonna take place, it's sortta not only a sequel to Ant Man, but also to Civil War. Because we couldn't ignore what Scott Lange did in that movie. But we weren't always sure how we were gonna fit into the larger timeline with regards to Infinity War.

Peyton Reed: Somewhere during the process, this idea occurred to us like Oh, well we could do -- we could do something like that.

And it seemed to work for us tonally, and sort of allows us to do our very stand alone movie but, have it fit into the larger Marvel happenings.

The Morrissey Music

Peyton Reed: How that came about was for a very brief time, years ago, I played drums in a Morrissey/Smiths cover band called "Louder Than Bombs" and we played a few shows here in Los Angeles just for fun.

I learned that Morrissey, who's from Manchester, had a huge following in Los Angeles. And because of his particular singing style, it really occurred to us as something that Luis would know about and be into, particularly the idea that his Grandma only plays Morrissey.

Peyton Reed: It just seemed like one of the crazy things Luis would mention in the course of his conversation. And that is one of the things we were talking about, how are we gonna do it in this movie. How are we gonna do a version, of what we did with Luis in the first movie, that doesn't repeat it.

And so when the writers came up with the idea of the truth serum thing? Yeah, that was really fun.

But Morrissey, obviously we had to get his permission to use the songs and knowing how mercurial he is as a human being, I wasn't sure, but he to like the idea, so he said yes.

Cassie Lange as a Superhero

Peyton Reed: I think that everybody's aware, from the first Antman and now in the Antman and The Wasp, who Cassie Lange is in the comics and that she does become a hero. So I think we wanted to definitely start laying some groundwork for that possibility. I don't know what specific plans are but I really liked the idea.

It's fun to work with Abbey three years later now. I always love in movies when you see a little kid 6yrs in the first movie and now 10yrs, you see how she has sort of grown.

I like the idea that you have these glimpses, where she goes toe to toe with Agent Wu. And she covers for her Dad and she's got -- that side of Scott, you know, that's, a little mischievous and everything but she's a tough kid. And I really love the idea of doing that intimate scene, where she's talking about maybe needing a partner and in her mind, it's her and him.

Father and Daughter Theme

Peyton Reed: I think that's one of the things that I liked the most in the movie, is that Scott, the evolution of the Scott/Cassie relationship. It helps that Abbey is so good. She's such a really focused young Actor, and it's sort of rare.

Really, Fathers and Daughters is a real thematic. It certainly wasn't in the first one. We wanted to progress that in this movie, whether it's literal Fathers and Daughters, like Hank, and Hope and Scott and Cassie are more figurative like you know, Bill Foster and Ava, his ghost. I like the idea of furthering that theme.


ANT-MAN AND THE WASP is now playing in theaters everywhere!



SYNOPSIS

From the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes ANT-MAN AND THE WASP, a new chapter featuring heroes with the astonishing ability to shrink. In the aftermath of CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR, Scott Lang grapples with the consequences of his choices as both a Super Hero and a father.

As he struggles to rebalance his home life with his responsibilities as Ant-Man, he’s confronted by Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym with an urgent new mission. Scott must once again put on the suit and learn to fight alongside the Wasp as the team works together to uncover secrets from the past.

Stars: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Pena, Walton Goggins, Bobby Cannavale, Judy Greer, Tip “T.I.” Harris, David Dastmalchian, Hannah John Kamen, Abby Ryder-Fortson, Randall Park, with Michelle Pfeiffer, with Laurence Fishburne and Michael Douglas.

Directed by: Peyton Reed

Marvel Studios' Ant-Man and The Wasp - Official Trailer #2


To learn more, visit - www.marvel.com/antman

Facebook - www.facebook.com/marvelstudios
Twitter - www.twitter.com/AntMan (#AntManAndTheWasp)
Instagram - www.instagram.com/marvelstudios

The character Wendy in Disney's Peter Pan is one of the very few females in the movie. Yet she made her mark by taking charge and caring...

The character Wendy in Disney's Peter Pan is one of the very few females in the movie. Yet she made her mark by taking charge and caring for Peter, the lost boys and her brothers.

Since Wendy was such a dynamic part of the Neverland adventure, I looked forward to interviewing Kathryn Beaumont (voice of and live-action reference model for Wendy) to celebrate Peter Pan Signature Collection release on Digital and Movies Anywhere and on Blu-ray June 5.

You can hear Wendy (Kathryn Beaumont) and John (Paul Collins) sharing what is was like filming on set in an all-new video clip in celebration of the 65th Anniversary of Peter Pan!

Peter Pan | Live Action Imagination


Kathryn Beaumont was 12 years old when she was chosen by Walt Disney to be the voice of Wendy. She also portrayed Wendy on film—but only for the benefit of the Disney animators, as a live-action reference model for their work. Prior to that, in 1949 Disney cast her as the voice of Alice in his animated adaptation of “Alice In Wonderland.”

In 1983 she returned to Disney to resumed her voice-over career recording as Alice and Wendy for theme parks, attractions, video games and television programs.

As you can see, Kathryn has a long connection with Peter Pan and The Walt Disney Company. I couldn't wait to hear what she had to share about working on the film.

How felt about being a female character going on an adventure, versus being "saved" like other female character at the time

Kathryn Beaumont: Actually, I didn't give that any thought at the time I was playing the role. These roles were both classics and was loved from way back, from before I was born. I grew up with those wonderful stories and enjoyed them immensely. I felt particularly honored I was chosen to play the voice of Wendy in the Disney version of these wonderful stories.

Then I got to do the live action. Those were some exciting times because I got to do both types of things. I was a lovely experience.

Did you have to prepare for the voice work for Wendy in Peter Pan?

Kathryn Beaumont: No, I was given a script for the voice part and we did the recording for the voice. Since I had the script, I had prior knowledge of what the scene would be about. A few weeks afterward came the live action, which was like doing a film. They setup one of the stages but nothing complicated. There wasn't alot inside the studio, just boxes and different things. You pretended about the characters we were taking to and all of that.

“For the character of Wendy,” she adds, “they wanted a characterization different from Alice. She wasn’t the practical little girl that Alice was because she was growing up and trying to be demure. This all had to come across in her voice. When Wendy got excited she would act like a little girl again and just rattle away. The writers built up dialogue for these moments.”

Do you have a favorite scene in "Peter Pan"?

Kathryn Beaumont: Well, I thought the flying scenes were fun, after I got used to being afraid of being up high and looking down from the rafters above the stage. I enjoyed that.

Why do you think families continue to enjoy Disney films like "Peter Pan"?

Kathryn Beaumont: I think families will continue to enjoy because Disney films are timeless and the talent that went into making these films are very special. It's wonderful to see the talent and work they did in an earlier period that still resonates. They're enjoyable as classic films.

Celebrate the 65th Anniversary of Walt Disney Animation's Peter Pan, available on Digital, Movies Anywhere and Blu-ray. Joining the Walt Disney Signature Collection, relive the animated classic with more than two hours of bonus features and new never-before-seen extras.

To learn more, visit - www.movies.disney.com/Peter-Pan

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PeterPan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DisneyAnimation

This month Disney’s “Peter Pan,” will join the Walt Disney Signature Collection, when it releases on Digital and Movies Anywhere on May 29 a...

This month Disney’s “Peter Pan,” will join the Walt Disney Signature Collection, when it releases on Digital and Movies Anywhere on May 29 and on Blu-ray June 5. With a little faith, trust and pixie dust, families can let their imagination soar on this epic adventure to Never Land.

Speaking of pixie dust, one of my favorite “Peter Pan” characters is Tinkerbell! So when I was invited to interview Mindy Johnson, author and historian of “Tinker Bell—An Evolution”, I was ready to learn all the behind the scene pixie stuff! That little spark of light and sound brought so such fun to the story.

For those of you who don't know Mindy, here's some background info.

Award-winning author, historian, educator, musician, and preeminent expert on women in early animation, Mindy Johnson’s latest groundbreaking book Ink & Paint – The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation, (Disney Editions) redefines our collective history. This essential volume casts a light on the thousands of unsung female artists behind the creative and technical advances within the animation art forms of the Twentieth Century.

Mindy’s critically acclaimed book, Tinker Bell – An Evolution (Disney Editions) was honored with rare consecutive Family Choice Awards.

Now onto my interview with Mindy about Tinkerbell!

Mindy, as a historian and author, talk about the research you did for Tinkerbell

Mindy Johnson: That was quite an adventure. When I was first diving into it, I met with some of the researchers at the Animation Research Library. They said "we have a binder that has a lot of fairies. We're not quite sure, but we think their Tinkerbells"

That was mystery enough for me. I was fascinated. I've always loved the Tinkerbell character anyway. But to see these different versions, that were so far from what we know and love as Tinkerbell, was fascinating to me. So that spanned a 7 year odyssey of literally going through JM Barrie papers and connecting the dots on this character and how she developed.

The different explorations being done for her was roughly a 15 year time-span that Walt Disney was experimenting. Her hair style changed, along with the prevailing fashions of the day. But going back even to J.M. Barrie development of the character, her original name was Tippytoe. How she was formed in the play as a little flash of light, was one of the challenges that Walt Disney and his artist were exploring in embodying her for the first time. So it was a fascinating journey.

There's been many changes to Tinkerbell over the years, do you keep up or is your version of Tinkerbell separate?

Mindy Johnson: That's an interesting question. I'm always fascinated with how we interpret this character. Because she embodies so much. She's the instigator in the original play. And her role shifts a little bit in the books. But she's a constant presence. It's been great fun to see how the story of Peter Pan and Neverland and the many wonderful characters are a terrific platform to work within to find the before stories and all these other side off shoot stories.

I love seeing how she has expanded a little bit. She can be portrayed a little bit more modern or as J.M. Barrie's original envision of her.

If you could give Tinkerbell a power now in 2018, what power would you give her?

Mindy Johnson: I think she does in many ways *wink* and unify many people. Maybe a wee bit more of that. She teaches us to laugh at ourselves at times. She gets over dramatic with a lot of things but then can quickly turn on a dime with her emotions.

J.M. Barrie stated that she's so tiny she's only capable of one emotion at a time. Walt and the artist of Disney sorta took that idea and tried to find ways to convey her as a pantomime character. So Mark Davis and the various models that he had to work with, including Cathy, helped him to shape and define her.

He designed her to be a little girl from the waist up but a woman from the waist down. So she embodies quite a bit for being so tiny. I think for today's superpowers, I think she's already got what she needs.

Do you think Tinkerbell as a female character, has a relevance for females today?

Mindy Johnson: Absolutely. Like I said, she was a real instigator for the original films and play. But I think she spoke her mind and was tough. As tiny as she was, she could be right in the mix of the lost boys and pirates.

From the generations of reactions I've seen from readers and audiences, I think that's the reason why both men and women embrace and love her. Which is why you see her carried out through the parks and early television. I think that still hold true today.

I so agree. Tinkerbell is still greatly adored by many, who will enjoy watching her in The Walt Disney Signature Collection edition of “Peter Pan”.

Celebrate the 65th Anniversary of Walt Disney Animation's Peter Pan, available on Digital, Movies Anywhere and Blu-ray. Joining the Walt Disney Signature Collection, relive the animated classic with more than two hours of bonus features and new never-before-seen extras.

To learn more, visit - www.movies.disney.com/Peter-Pan

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