The Magician’s Elephant: Exclusive interview with Director Wendy Rogers and Producer Julia Pistor
Some films leave a lasting impression…
My family recently screened, “The Magician’s Elephant.” This is a beautiful film that you don’t want to miss! It is a story about hope, family, and resilience.
Check out our exclusive interview with the Director Wendy Rogers and Producer Julia Pistor.
Watch “The Magician’s Elephant” with your entire family today!
When young Peter, who is searching for his long-lost sister, crosses paths with a fortune teller in the market square, there is only one question on his mind: is his sister still alive? The answer — that he must follow a mysterious elephant — sets Peter off on a remarkable journey to complete three seemingly impossible tasks that magically change the face of his town forever. THE MAGICIAN’S ELEPHANT is based on Newbery Award-winning author Kate DiCamillo’s classic novel.
Quote from the Director Wendy Rogers:
“It is my honor to introduce you to The Magician’s Elephant, a joyful animated reimagining of Kate DiCamillo’s prize-winning novel. Our film follows optimistic young Peter on a quest to find his sister – an adventure that involves achieving three impossible tasks and an unexpected elephant encounter. Combining Martin Hynes’ comedic and thoughtful script with the well-respected experience of producer Julia Pistor, The Magician’s Elephant was a wonderful privilege to create as my directorial debut. I am forever grateful for our brilliant crew at Netflix and Animal Logic that collectively designed and crafted a beautiful, surreal yet tangible world in which our compellingly layered and diverse cast of characters flourishes. I could not have asked for a more emotionally fulfilling story to tell in partnership with such talented filmmakers and voice actors.
I hope you will enjoy the cinematic journey into our fabled world, and be inspired by Peter’s grit, determination and belief that anything is possible: his spirit has strong resonance for our present day, a time in which we must not only believe that the world can be different, but that we must take action to make positive change! “- Wendy Rogers
NETFLIX: Ginny & Georgia Season 2 Interview with Cast
Last month, we interviewed Brianne Howey, Antonia Gentry, Felix Mallard and Sara Waisglass for Ginny and Georgia. We love this series so much, and are excited to share that you can stream season 2 TODAY on Netflix!
Check out our interview below!
There is sooo much to look forward to this season you don’t want to miss out! If you haven’t see the show you can go back and stream season 1!
How do you live with the knowledge that your mother is a murderer? That’s what Ginny is going to have to figure out. Burdened with the new understanding that Kenny – her step-dad – didn’t die of natural causes, now Ginny must deal with the fact that Georgia not only killed, she killed to protect Ginny.
Georgia on the other hand would much prefer that the past be left in the past, after all, she’s got a wedding to plan! But the funny thing about Georgia’s past is that it never stays buried for long..
How’s your summer going friends? Last week, Netflix shared all that is all new and what there is to look forward to. Drew and I have been enjoying some of these fantastic shows, and hanging out by the pool.
We also had a chance to interview Director Chris Williams & Actress Zaris-Angel Hator.
To keep the fun going at home, download the activity guide here and check out the “Summer Break” collection at www.netflix.com/netflixfamilysummer for even more summertime viewing suggestions.
Check out our exclusive interview with Director Chris Williams & Actress Zaris-Angel Hator
I am so excited for you all to see THE SEA BEAST, which premieres globally on @netflixfamily July 8th.
Synopsis: In an era when terrifying beasts roamed the seas, monster hunters were celebrated heroes – and none were more beloved than the great Jacob Holland. But when young Maisie Brumble stows away on his fabled ship, he’s saddled with an unexpected ally. Together they embark on an epic journey into uncharted waters and make history.
Tall Girl 2: Exclusive Interview with Angela Kinsey & Director Emily Ting
It’s Valentine’s Day weekend guys, what will you be streaming on Netflix?
High school isn’t always easy and the social pressures to fit in can be really tough. Jodi (Ava Michelle) is back in Tall Girl 2, but now she facing a whole new set of issues. Although she has overcome some big obstacles in the previous film, she is still maturing, growing and has to navigate love, friendship, and her academic future.
Our corespondent Miss Clarissa Camacho, spoke to actress Angela Kinsey (from the office) and the Director Emily Ting. Watch our exclusive interview below…
Tall Girl is NOW streaming on Netflix!
SYNOPSIS:
After her inspiring speech at the homecoming dance, Jodi (Ava Michelle) is no longer just the “tall girl” – she’s popular, confident, has a boyfriend, and just booked the lead role in this year’s school musical. But as the pressure of her newfound popularity intensifies, so do her insecurities, and new relationships are formed while old ones are tested. As the world she built starts to crumble around her, Jodi realizes that standing tall was only just the beginning
Watch our interview here:
In this new sequel, we see the gang face new challenges and it brings the topic of mental health.
Jodi experiences some major anxiety, and has to make some important life changing decisions. It is refreshing to see this relatable topic in a teen film. Director Emily Ting, has brilliantly explored it in this new film. I appreciate this and it has struck up much needed conversations in our home.
Will Jodi get into the college of her dreams? Does Stig (Luke Eisner) have a new love interest? Is mean girl Kimmy (Clara Wilsey) changing her ways? Is Fareeda (Anjelika Washington) going to follow her dreams or listen to her parents, and go to med school? There is so much you don’t want to miss in this new film.
These teens are going through major transitions, and this flick has so many important messages. Stream it today with the entire family!
Netflix Home Team: Exclusive Interview With Kevin James
Parenting can be tough and the relationship with our children can be challenging at times. We love a good film that we can relate to and move us. If you’re looking for a good family flick that does just that, don’t miss Netflix’s, HOME TEAM. Now streaming…
Actor Kevin James is brilliant in everything he plays, and we had the opportunity to talk to him about his role in this new film. In real life Kevin is gentle, kind and a very involved father. In our exclusive interview, he talked about being in his child’s theater play.
This early morning interview was so much fun, and it was truly memorable. This film is based on a true story. * Watch my video below.
Thank you Netflix for partnering on this post. All opinions are my own.
Two years after NFL head coach Sean Payton is suspended, he goes back to his hometown and finds himself reconnecting with his 12-year-old son by coaching his Pop Warner football team. This film is based on a true story.
My girls were also super excited to see Troy (Taylor Lautner), a kind and supportive youthful football coach who struggles to build his team into disciplined and motivated athletes. Hoping to turn the Warriors’ losing streak around, Troy asks Sean to help him get the team back in the game.
Home Team is a heartwarming story that you don’t want to miss…
Back To The Outback: Exclusive Interview With Isla Fisher and Tim Minchin.
This week, we screened Netflix’s new film, “Back to the Outback.” We also interviewed actors Isla Fisher and Tim Minchin. This adorable new animated film is a love letter and tribute to the wildlife of Australia. Learn more and check out our exclusive interview below!
BACK TO THE OUTBACK Debuts globally on Netflix December 10
Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the Outback, a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs.
Leading the group is Maddie (Isla Fisher), a poisonous snake with a heart of gold, who bands together with a self-assured Thorny Devil lizard Zoe (Miranda Tapsell), a lovelorn hairy spider Frank (Guy Pearce), and a sensitive scorpion Nigel (Angus Imrie). But when their nemesis — Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), a cute but obnoxious koala — unexpectedly joins their escape, Maddie and the gang have no choice but to take him with them.
So begins a hair-raising and hilarious road trip across Australia, as they are pursued by a zookeeper Chaz (Eric Bana) and his adventure-seeking mini-me (Diesel La Torraca). Directed by Clare Knight and Harry Cripps, and also featuring the voices of Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Lachlan Ross Power, and Jacki Weaver, BACK TO THE OUTBACK is an animated adventure that proves just because something’s different, doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful.
About The Soundtrack
The soundtrack features two original songs written by musician, comedian, actor, and writer Tim Minchin, who also voices the character of Pretty Boy in the film. Evie Irie lends her vocals in a duet with Minchin for “Beautiful Ugly,” while “Maddie’s Lullaby” is performed by Indigenous Australian singer-songwriter Thelma Plum.
Voice Cast: Isla Fisher, Tim Minchin, Eric Bana, Guy Pearce, Miranda Tapsell, Angus Imrie, Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Aislinn Derbez, Diesel La Torraca, Lachlan Ross Power, Jacki Weaver
Back to the Outback: Exclusive Interview With Directors Clare Knight and Harry Cripps
Last week, we previewed the first half hour of Netflix’s new film, “Back to the Outback.” We also interviewed film directors, Clare Knight and Harry Cripps. This adorable new animated film is a love letter and tribute to the wildlife to Australia. Learn more and check out our exclusive interview below!
BACK TO THE OUTBACK Debuts globally on Netflix December 10
Thank you Netflix for partnering on this campaign. All opinions are my own.
Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the Outback, a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs.
Leading the group is Maddie (Isla Fisher), a poisonous snake with a heart of gold, who bands together with a self-assured Thorny Devil lizard Zoe (Miranda Tapsell), a lovelorn hairy spider Frank (Guy Pearce), and a sensitive scorpion Nigel (Angus Imrie). But when their nemesis — Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), a cute but obnoxious koala — unexpectedly joins their escape, Maddie and the gang have no choice but to take him with them.
So begins a hair-raising and hilarious road trip across Australia, as they are pursued by a zookeeper Chaz (Eric Bana) and his adventure-seeking mini-me (Diesel La Torraca). Directed by Clare Knight and Harry Cripps, and also featuring the voices of Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Lachlan Ross Power, and Jacki Weaver, BACK TO THE OUTBACK is an animated adventure that proves just because something’s different, doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful.
My dad and I had the pleasure of meeting the brilliant Jorge R. Gutiérrez. He is a talented animator, director, and he is dedicated to bring Latinx folklores and stories to the big screen, while giving children of color the opportunity to see themselves represented in films and television. In celebration of his new mini series Maya and the The Three, Gutiérrez has created a spectacular, interactive art installation available to the Los Angeles community! 📍: Eugene OBREGON Park 💲: FREE
Maya and the Three NOW Streaming on NETFLIX.
When I was a child, I would dream in vibrant colors. I dreamt of fearless warriors, unimaginable magic, and daring adventure. I’d turn on the tv, flip through the channels, and upon further realization that I did not fit in the cinematic world. Fifteen years later, my wishes have been answered. Yet again Jorge Gutierrez, is making it happen on Netflix. He pays special attention to detail, accuracy, portrayals and overall storytelling. He has previously created the magnificent Book of Life, which featured beautiful colors, unique animation, and enchanting music.
All of this and more, has been incorporated into the NEW Netflix series, Maya and the Three. The protagonist Maya, is a “spirited princess with the heart of a warrior [who] embarks on a mission to fulfill an ancient prophecy and save humanity from the wrath of vengeful gods.”
During my interview with Gutierrez, he explained his commitment to creating cinematic masterpieces without limits as,“Well being in this medium, a lot of times we don’t get to see our stories and or hear our stories. Not only as characters but behind the scenes. So from the beginning I wanted to work with talent, and yes, I’m from Mexico, but I wanted talent from ALL of Latin America,” said Gutierrez.
Although, to be clear, his road to success wasn’t easy, as his first day as an animator was a bit unconventional, “Well… I mean I always tell the story of my first day as an animator at Sony. I got yelled at as they told me, Janitorial services were supposed to be here an hour ago. And it’s because animators didn’t look like me. So I said, okay, that’s my first introduction into Hollywood and uh.. I kept working my way through. Ya know, It’s been twenty one years, and or twenty years people were more openly racist I think.”
Gutiérrez prevailed, he excelled, and he has now won over the hearts of millions of Latinos. Netflix and Gutiérrez celebrate the Latinx community, and have even lent over a beautiful, Interactive art experience to Eugene A. Obregon Park. Where children and adults alike can experience the magic experience for free. Bravo!
Last week, we had the incredible opportunity to get an exclusive interview with Zoe Saldana to talk about representation of indigenous characters in film. Saldana has become a beacon of hope for many young girls of color, who rarely get to see someone who resembles them in films and television. This interview was especially important for my correspondent / daughter Clarissa. As a young girl, she often felt ostracized because of her golden brown skin, and Spanish / indigenous heritage, as she grew up in a predominant Caucasian area. Now that she is coming into adulthood, we both feel that it is important to address the lack of representation in the cinematic world.
We shared a heartfelt moment and tears began to flow with Zoe as we discussed her Netflix’s NEW limited series, “Maya and the Three.“
MAYA AND THE THREE – Coming to Netflix October 22!
Disclosure: Thank you Netflix for partnering for this interview for “Maya and the Three.” All opinions are my own.
Watch the trailer here.
Synopsis:
In a fantastical world, where magic turns the world and four kingdoms rule the lands, a brave and rebellious warrior princess named Maya is about to celebrate her fifteenth birthday and coronation. But everything changes when the gods of the underworld arrive and announce that Maya’s life is forfeit to the God of War — a price she must pay for her family’s secret past. If Maya refuses, the whole world will suffer the gods’ vengeance. To save her beloved family, her friends, and her own life, Maya embarks on a thrilling quest to fulfill an ancient prophecy that foretells the coming of three great warriors who will help her defeat the gods and save humankind.
From creator Jorge R. Gutiérrez (EL TIGRE, THE BOOK OF LIFE), MAYA AND THE THREE is a Netflix Animated Event told in nine epic chapters. Set in a fictional fantasy world, MAYA AND THE THREE is an adventure full of heart and humor, inspired by a rich, vibrant mixture of Aztec, Maya, and Inca mythology, and modern-day Caribbean culture.
We are absolutely thrilled to see that Maya’s character is natural leader who is fearless, strong, and a of indigenous blood. We also also excited that some of our favorite celebs like Gael Garcia Bernal, Diego Luna, Rita Moreno and Gabriel Iglesias will be part of this incredible series! We appreciate Jorge R. Gutierrez’s commitment in making people of color visible in the world of cinematography.
Blogger: Hi, Zoe. My name is Clarissa Saldana (sp), and I am with (unintelligible)–.
Zoe Saldana: –Oh–.
Blogger: –Dot com. Yes, I was actually just on avail for Danny in Gordita Chronicles, so I met your beautiful sisters. They were amazing.
Zoe Saldana: Oh, my God. That would have been great, to have so many Saldanas in the room.
Blogger: Right. I don’t if that’s–that was my first thought.
But my question is, considering indigenous characters only make up to 0.4 percent of characters portrayed in film and television, what do you hope indigenous children will take away from your character, Maya?
Zoe Saldana: That they are beautiful and that they are meant to be. I get emotional because this is something that–it’s just it’s important for children of color, you know, that they matter, that their stories matter, that their history matters, and that nobody has to give you that anymore. It’s yours. It’s always been yours.
And I think it’s up to us–we also have a lot of power. I feel like a lot of time is spent sometimes pointing the finger and not enough time is spent investing on our communities ourselves, like on our education, uplifting each other so that, once we rise to these positions of leadership, then we become those gatekeepers. And we are in that journey. America is about to witness a beautiful renaissance, and obviously that takes time, unfortunately. But we’re on it already. We’re on it and we just have to stay the course.
Your job as journalists and mothers as well is to hold everybody accountable. You all have to watch this. It is on us. We have to. We can’t just–your time and your money is the power and the validation that we give to all the content that blatantly omits us from their narrative. We are the ones that have perpetuated this. Please understand that when it comes to studios, they’re not just the bad cops. We have been the bad cops as well.
But when you say you will no longer take my time, you will no longer take my money, I don’t have to watch you ’cause I’m going to spend all of who I am promoting and amplifying and, you know, growing this community, this visibility, that’s when all the studios and all those executives are going to be like, “Oh, we gotta chase the money where it’s going.” It’s–you–we have to be pragmatic about this.
They’re just giving us what we’re giving back to them. Take it away, and you’ll see how the narrative immediately in America changes. We are a nation of capitalism. You don’t hit them in the heart. You hit them in the pocket. That’s all I’m going to say. Come on now. We gotta be pragmatic about this.
Blogger: Thank you so much for making something that my–or helping or being part of something that my children can identify with as the (unintelligible). It’s amazing.
Earlier this month Drew and I had the opportunity to screen Netflix’s new film, “Finding Ohana.” We also had an exclusive interview the creators, and the talented cast. This family friendly flick showcases historical legends from the Hawaiian culture. We truly enjoyed it and know you will too!
Disclosure: I have a partnership with Netflix, all opinions are my own.
Synopsis
Finding ‘Ohana is a lovely, earthly tale that takes place in tropical, rural Oahu. City born and raised siblings (Pili and Loane) hunt down treasure, while, creating friends of a lifetime. Plucked out of the Brooklyn Scene, they’re pushed into a world of culture, diversity, and adventure.
The ancient treasure hidden in the mystical cave, gifts them with multiple riches, including the gift of wisdom, in which allows them to connect with their beautiful, Hawaiian heritage. This wonderful tale, has plenty of Indiana Jones + Gen Z power influences. Ones of which will empower young minorities, and girls, who are far too often unrepresented. The new generation of females, fight gender norms, rebel against the status quo, and change the world. Which only makes sense to write characters as so.
This movie is heartwarming. It’s about family, friendship, and sacrifice. It is relatable and endearing.
My daughter Clarissa said she felt a connection to the film. We raised our children in an area in which brown skin wasn’t the norm. She grew into her cultural identity, and grew into her empowerment.
Hear what Owen Vaccaro had to say about being behind the scenes in our exclusive interview.
INTERVIEWS:
Roundtable with Christina Strain & Jude Weng
Roundtable with Alex Aiono & Lindsay Watson Roundtable with Kea Peahu & Owen Vaccaro
Movies that expedite this process, help progress growth, and confidence. I once again applaud Netflix for their spectacular, talented cast, and devotion to telling stories of all backgrounds/origins.
