While my kids are in school, I try to get in some “me” time. I recently checked out Facialworks in Newport Beach with my girlfriends. It’s so nice to disconnect and get pampered. Facialworks is the perfect spot to relax, reenergize, and get the ultimate facial.
Hosted: Thank you Facialworks in Newport Beach for the amazing Brightworks Facial. ???? All opinions are my own.
The Facial Bar is chic and trendy. It was so nice to catch up and chat with my girls.
The exceptional staff also made the whole experience worthwhile. I was asked a series of question regarding my skin. We also discussed my daily regimen. My consultant recommended the Brightworks Facial for my combination skin.
I was totally relaxed and almost fell asleep… The forty minute facial was fabulous!
The prices are reasonable.
1 Facial for $50, 3 for $135, and 6 for $26o.
Facial Treatments:
Hydrafacialworks
Feeling dry? This facial is like a drink of water for your skin. Two passes of oxygen instead of one will have you feeling hydrated!
Ageworks
Aging stinks! So fight it with this powerful facial that will have you looking like your younger self. It’s like a time machine for your face!
Brightworks (LOVE)
Brown spots and sun damage are no match for this facial. We’ve got just the products you need to undo all that sunbathing.
Clearworks
Breakouts? We’ve got a facial for that. We show acne who’s boss with products designed to keep you looking clean and clear.
Organicworks
Need to be natural? We get it. This facial is for you! We use only organic and wildcrafted products to make your skin as beautiful as nature.
My skin felt so soft and rejuvenated after my Brightworks facial. My skin no longer looked dull and appeared brighter. If you are looking for a summer glow, you’ll definitely love this facial treatment!
I would love for you try this place out with your BFF! Enter to win 2 free facials!
I grew up in the 70’s watching actress Lynda Carter in the Wonder Woman hit series on ABC. She was an icon for my generation, and the epitome of intelligence, strength, and beauty. After watching an episode, I often would spin in my living room to transform into Wonder Woman and would reenact one of her battle scenes. I felt invincible and strong. There is a new heroine in town, and she will not disappoint fans…
On June 2nd, the new Wonder Woman Movie will hit theaters with a bang!
Actress Gal Gadot had large shoes to fill when taking on this leading female role. I admit I was a little skeptical before screening this film, but Gadot’s performance blew me away…
My daughter and I were thrilled to get an exclusive interview with Gal Gadot and Director Patty Jenkins earlier this month.
This is a sponsored post. Thank you Warner Bros for inviting my daughter and I to screen Wonder Woman and interview Gal Gadot and Patty Jenkins . All opinions are my own.
This film is long overdue, and I am thrilled that there is a new badass female hero for a new generation!
About The Movie
Power of a goddess. Heart of a hero. Gal Gadot is #WonderWoman
From Warner Bros. Pictures and DC Entertainment comes the epic action adventure starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Connie Nielsen and Robin Wright, directed by Patty Jenkins.
Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American Pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers… and her true destiny.
My daughter applauded and cried tears of joy after screening this film. She sat front and center as she waited to meet Gal Gadot.
Question: So, what do you feel is the most important part of being Wonder Woman?
Ms. Gal Gadot: “Well, I think that it’s so important that we show a strong female figure and that we show her story. I think that me growing up, I could go and watch Superman or Batman, but I never had a strong female figure that really inspires me to look up to. And I think that this movie is so important for all of you young girls and also for boys, as well. I’ve seen many boys dressed as Wonder Woman.
And I think that what’s so beautiful about this character is that she’s very universal. Everyone can find something that he likes for himself about the character. And she stands for beautiful things, for love and for acceptance and compassion and truth, and these values are very important, especially nowadays.
And I think that, if we expose our kids to more of a goodness, then they will become greater. We’ll have a better society.”
Question: I was wondering, so I love Robin Wright, and I think you guys were just so amazing together. And the scenes on the island were incredible. How did you do that, and how did everyone train for that? It was unbelievable?
Ms. Patty Jenkins: “Well, I don’t even know where to begin because it was actually so complicated. To try to build all of the things you need to make this island in the history of Wonder Woman which is always an idealized place that happens to be populated by all of these women but is very real.
And so, it was a visual struggle to find all of the elements to put together to say that almost feels real. But, then to find the greatest women you could. What was cool about it was I’ve grown up knowing so many incredible women and so many incredible people. So, when you try to represent that in an island made up of only women, you end up pulling together so many different interesting people. Some are great at horse riding. Some was the greatest boxer in the world. Someone else is an incredible artisan.
And you end up with such a broad variety of people, and then you want to establish a world where they’re all one.
And so, we found these incredible women. They turned out to be such a broad variety of people, but, we needed the one who knew how to ride a horse to also know how to fight and the one who knew how to fight to know how to ride a horse. And so, we had to do this boot camp for months where each of them worked together every day to learn those other things.
And it turned into this incredibly inspiring cool thing because they all became really tight and really great friends, and how they approach things is slightly different than they might have if they were alone or not together. So, it was really awesome. It was great, and Robin was amazing.”
Ms. Gal Gadot: “It was.”
Question: So, what does it mean for both of you guys to be leading this representation for young girls? I grew up not really seeing anybody on screen to be like that’s who I want to be, that’s who I look up to. And now, my daughter has you.
Ms. Gal Gadot: “It’s amazing, it’s amazing, and I’m so touched by it. It’s funny because it’s my first time seeing girls that actually saw the movie.
And it’s just so moving for me. And your reaction means the world because this is why we make these movies. This is why it’s worth, so I’m very, very happy, and I’m so glad that you all love the movie.”
Ms. Patty Jenkins: “Yes. And for me, when I was a kid, I saw Superman, and it made me feel like I could be a hero one day, and it’s lasted with me ever since and is one of the reasons I’m here today. But, it wasn’t until I saw the show of Wonder Woman on TV, which happened around the same time, when I was Wonder Woman on the playground, I was everything I ever wanted to be.
So, sometimes, we”ve had these moments where we’re like, oh, my God, the idea that we could be a part of kids’ lives in that way is so beautiful and overwhelming, and we hope to give what we were given by other people.”
Ms. Gal Gadot: “Exactly.”
Thank you to Patty Jenkins for creating this wonderful film. I am grateful that you are showing our girls that having strength and brains is a winning combination.
This film has been rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, and some suggestive content
Note* The fight scenes my be intense for younger viewers.
The new Wonder Woman Movie empowers and inspires young girls to be leaders in their communities. Girls need to know they can conquer anything that comes their way. They can be the voice for the voiceless, change they wish to see, and most importantly be their own kind of superhero.
Opening night of “The Bodyguard” the musical, at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in OC was a night to remember. My childhood friend and I shared a lovely evening with music that evoked nostalgic memories of our youth… This incredible musical brought us back to our High School years with classic songs like, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and “One Moment In time.”
Thank you Segerstrom Center Of the Arts for the complimentary tickets to see The Bodyguard Musical. All Opinions are my own.
– Photo by Joan Marcus
This touring adaptation of the 1992 film has been transformed into a sensational musical! “The Bodyguard” is about taking chances in love and the unfortunate price of stardom. It is suspenseful, romantic, and dramatic…
Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A romantic thriller, THE BODYGUARD features a host of irresistible classics including “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.”
– Photo by Joan Marcus
Deborah Cox is pitch-perfect and brings back timeless love songs back to life. “Run to You” and “I Will Always Love You” is celestial. I was lip singing during the entire show…
Judson Mills is stoic and convincing, but also charming. He is a total stud in his role as Frank Farmer “The Bodyguard.”
The choreography is upbeat and we wiggled in our seat to the music during the show.
Backstage with Deborah Cox and Judson Mills
The show ended with a standing ovation and the audience stood up and danced! We laughed, cried, and lip sang… My girlfriend and I talked about the unforgettable music and reminisced about our first loves on our way home.
– Photo by Joan Marcus
“The Bodyguard” is at Segerstrom Center for the Arts until June 11th. Please be advised that it contains strong language and mature themes. Thank you Segerstrom for inviting us to see the show! For more information, please visit their website at www.scfta.org.
THE BODYGUARD
Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
Tickets – Start at $29 In person
Segerstrom Hall May 30 – June 11, 2017
Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m. The role of Rachel Marron will be played by Jasmin Richardson at the Saturday matinee and Sunday evening performances. The 2 p.m. performance on Saturday, June 10, 2017 will include audio description, open captioning and sign language interpretation.
Knott’s Soak City Waterpark reopened with a BIG splash last weekend, and were thrilled to be invited to media day. It was 90 plus degrees outside, but we didn’t care because we were at a splash-tacular place to cool off!
Thank you Knott’s Soak City for inviting my family to the reopening of your waterpark. All opinions are my own.
The waterpark is bigger and better than ever before, and we love it!
Knott’s Soak City has added a 2-acre expansion and thematic renovation, new shaded seating areas, spacious cabanas and a newly remodeled Longboard’s Grill have been added to the water park.
Our family enjoys Knott’s Soak City in summertime, and I’m glad there is something for little kids, as well as the big ones…
My kiddos were ecstatic because we arrived extra early to try out the new water slides!
Experience 7 new water slides!
Shore Break towers over seven stories high and offers six different thrilling water slide experiences. Four of the slides will have guests climbing into an exhilarating Aqua Launch chamber which will send riders on a vertical free fall through a series loops and curves.
The newest family raft ride, The Wedge, takes up to 6 riders on a thrilling and exhilarating trip navigating twists and turns and a few surprise drops down the slide tower.
Are you brave enough to try these new slides?
What to bring to the Waterpark:
Sunblock
Sunglasses, sun hats, or visors
Towels
Sandals/Shoes to walk around the park
Waterproof phone case (Knott’s Soak City now offers FREE wifi for guests)
Water bottles
*Lockers are available to keep your valuables safe.
Knott’s Soak City Park Tips
Arrive early to reserve a cabana or lounge chair
Each cabana can accommodate up to 8 guests and includes extra amenities like a table with umbrella, free tube rental, and waiter service
Inner tubes are available to rent for 10 dollars a day
Purchase a Knott’s Berry Farm’s Souvenir reusable cup to refill throughout your visit (3 refill stations are available)
Purchase your tickets to Knott’s Soak City online and save off the front gate price! (online: as low as $37.00 / gate: $48.00)
If you are looking for some summer fun, Knott’s Soak City Waterpark is the place to be!
Ahoy mates! Are you a Pirates Of The Caribbean fan?
Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales has hit theaters and will not disappoint moviegoers. This new film is full of surprises and is a MUST-SEE!
Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) is back in his signature role, doing his piratical mischief. Depp’s humor is salty and entertaining as ever!
Thank you Disney for inviting me to screen Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. All opinions are my own.
Johnny Depp returns to the big screen as the iconic, swashbuckling anti-hero Jack Sparrow in the all-new “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” The rip-roaring adventure finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil’s Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea—notably Jack. Jack’s only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Brenton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced.
Photo credit to Disney
In this new adventure, Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem) plans to get hold of Jack Sparrows compass in attempt to order to break “dammed the eternity curse” as a ghost curse… This however, can only be accomplished by possessing the Trident of Poseidon.
Bardem’s creepy portrayal of Captain Salazar is on point, but also hard to watch with black goo continuously dripping out of his mouth.
Photo credit to Disney
Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario) is brilliant in this female kick ass role! She’s a fearless rebel that keep her mates on their toes. (love her)
Photo credit to Disney
Henry (Brenton Thwaites) is a charming sailor is on a mission and desperate to free his father Will Turner, (Orlando Bloom) from his below-sea curse.
The CGI in this movie is extraordinary, and the parting of the sea scene was jaw dropping.
This movie is swashbuckling, romantic, and full of adventure. It’s everything you could want in a Pirate film…
Go see “Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” now in theaters!
Earlier this month, I met with the creators of PBS SoCal Kid’s “Ready Jet Go,” and learned how children’s educational programming is created. I was amazed to learn about the amount work that is involved to create this fantastic show.
PBS has always been a family favorite in our home. Public broadcasting is a wonderful treasure in our community that provides quality entertainment for families in Southern California.
About Ready Jet Go!
Earth science and astronomy take center stage in this animated series from PBS Kids. Two neighborhood kids – Sean and Sydney befriend the new kid on the block, Jet Propulsion, who just happens to be an alien from planet Bortron 7. Together they explore the solar system and how it affects the planet, while also learning about friendship and teamwork. The series features live-action interstitials with astronomer Dr. Amy Mainzer.
Thank you PBS SoCal KOCE for inviting me to learn more about your educational programming. All opinions are my own.
Here are 5 reasons parents LOVE and support PBS SoCal KIDS
1.PBS SoCal KIDS programs are educational.
PBS SoCal KIDS programs proves time and time again that it teaches children through a tested curriculum in literacy , STEM and social-emotional development. This valuable educational content is available to all Southern California children anytime.
As a mother, I appreciate the fact that my son is learning about Science and Astronomy when he watches “Ready Jet Go!” After watching an episode, he is ecstatic to share what he has learned about our Solar System with his older siblings.
2. PBS SoCal KIDS shows are healthy for a child’s development.
Ages 2-8 is a very crucial time for a child’s development. At this early age, they are forming cognitive capacities needed to succeed in grade school. Research shows that the quality of early education can have life-long benefits. In Southern California, over forty percent of children ages 3-5 are not enrolled in preschool. In this environment, PBS SoCal KIDS is extremely valuable, reaching children in more ways, and at a critical time in their development.
3. PBS SoCal KIDS shows are fun, interactive, colorful, and can be accessed anytime online!
Kids can access many of their favorite PBS kid shows online 24/7. My son loves to visit Ready Jet Go! online to watch his favorite episodes, play games, and get song sheets. These games give children the hands-on interactive experience that prepare them for academic success!
4. Kids learn from the experts.
In my meeting with the the creators of Ready Jet Go, I learned about the team collaboration that is involved to create this incredible program. One episode takes about 9 months to create a 11 minute episode. The team includes scientists, teachers, child development experts, cartoon artists, and musicians.
Every script is reviewed and revised by professionals, for the accuracy of the content that is being provided.
5. PBS Kid shows inspires kids to dream BIG!
PBS children programs inspire kids to think out of the box and dream big! Each episode takes children on an adventure that includes exploration. These shows give them the knowledge and confidence that inspires them to be leaders in their communities.
My son now dreams of one day visiting Mars and exploring the Moon one day!
Here is what some parents had to say about PBS SoCal KIDS Programs…
“I appreciate that the shows are entertaining and educational. My favorite show is Martha Speaks!” –Desiree Eaglin Blogger at The Funny Mom Blog, Parent, and PBS Supporter.
“These wonderful shows teach my children to be respectful to others, about being a great friend, and other life lessons. Another great aspect is that there are no commercials. I love the shows that PBS offers families. They have an educational spin. As a mom, I don’t feel guilty about letting them watch cartoons that are teaching my children.”- Jennifer Willey Blogger at Balancing The Chaos, Parent, Teacher, and PBS Supporter.
“I love how it opens up my kids mind to new possibilities and new information. It makes them think anything is possible. It reminds them to ask the questions and dream big. They love Ready Jet Go, Nature Cat, Nova, Wild Kratts, and Odd Squad.” –Sandee Vasquez Gutierrez, Parent, and PBS Supporter
“All the shows teach my kids something and there are no commercials trying to sell my kids stuff. We love love love The Wild Kratts! My kids love the way Odd Squad makes them think mathematically.”- Maria Vasquez-Villarreal, Parent, Teacher, and PBS Supporter
Johnny Depp returns to the big screen as the iconic, swashbuckling anti-hero Jack Sparrow in the all-new “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” The rip-roaring adventure finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil’s Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea—notably Jack. Jack’s only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Brenton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced.
Savvy? Great! Now get yer swaggger on an’ share some o’ yer favorite piratical ramblin’s with yer mates while you play these fun games!
Go see “Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” in theaters May 26th!
My fondest childhood memories were spent in Rosarito, B.C. Mexico. Every summer my family spent time at my grandparent’s humble home by the beach. We had no running water, and we slept in small rooms in their casita (small house). We were completely disconnected from television, our CalecoVision and Atari, and we didn’t mind. We were content with taking hikes and enjoying the splendid nature that surrounded us. We sang, “Vamos a La Playa,” as we walked to the beach.
My tios (uncles) sang classic ballads in the evenings as we gathered around the porch. We stared at the stars in the sky, and let our imaginations run free. We told “La Llorana” ghost stories as we sat by a fire. Life was simple, but great.
These treasures are vivid in my memory book, and I want to share this unique experience with my kids. This is why I love camping!
Last month my family went to explore Ventura Ranch KOA Campground in Santa Paola, California. It was only a two and a half hour drive out of Orange County. We stayed in the Park Model RV. It was so nice to get out of the city and relax.
The Deluxe Cabin had had 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. It was the perfect spot for our weekend staycation. This cabin includes kitchen with utensils, dining area, and living room.
Ready to plan a camping adventure of your own? Check out GoRVing.com for info on how to get started, where to find campgrounds with Park Model cabins like the wonderful one we stayed in, what to bring, simple campfire recipes and so much more!
Here are 6 Important Reasons to Go Camping with your Family:
1. Camping bonds families.
Camping allows families to disconnect from the city hustle and bustle and spend quality time together. It’s so important to talk to kids and create a dialog between parents and children.
My family is always on the go. Between work, school, and activities, we rarely have time to talk. It was so nice to hear what was going in each of our kid’s daily lives.
2. Nature is therapeutic.
It’s important to disconnect and enjoy nature. Nature is calming, and research shows that being outdoors in nature significantly reduces stress. (parents benefit too) Kids and teens benefit from their experiences in nature more than any other population, particularly in the area of academic performance.
It’s not always easy to get my teenage daughter out of house. Clarissa said she loved spending Earth Day at Ventura Ranch KOA.
The fresh air and scenic views are incredible. This was our stunning view from the Deluxe 2 bedroom RV.
3. The outdoors inspires creativity.
When children disconnect from technology, they are required to use their imagination. When they explore outdoors, they are surrounded by amazing sights, smells, and sounds. This heightens all senses, which then stimulates creativity.
My 10 year old son felt inspired to take this photograph of a wild peacock that was roaming around in the campground. I loved hearing him tell creative creepy stories, while we sat around our campfire.
Not all classrooms have four walls. Nature is a powerful teacher. There are so many things that kids can learn hands-on outdoors, that they cannot learn sitting in a classroom. Playing outdoors also enhances problem-solving ability, and self-discipline, and cognitive flexibility in children.
My family talked talked about wildlife conservation as we walked on the nature trail. We named different plants and animals that we spotted in the area. We saw hummingbirds, wild peacocks, squirrels, and even encountered a skunk. Yikes! My son also enjoyed learning about the Chumash indians that once resided in this area.
Andrew was thrilled to try on retired Park Ranger, Richard Roja’s from Latino Outdoors official hat.
5. Camping gets the kids outdoors and exercising!
Hiking, rock climbing, and swimming is great exercise. All of these activities will get the heart rate up and blood flowing.
My son broke a sweat when he climbed on this rock tower at the campground.
6. Camping inspires kids to be adventurous!
When kids are outdoors they begin to explore, build confidence, and try new things.
It was so nice to see my daughter off her cell phone and hit the Zip Line for her first time. She was a little nervous at first, then in no time she was boarding a higher zip line. I loved watching her get out of her comfort zone and try something new!
I felt rejuvenated and re-energized after this trip…
We had a fabulous time at the Ventura Ranch KOA Campground in our GoRVing cabin. I look forward to more family travel and exploration with them!
Thank you GoRving and KOA for hosting my family at the Ventura Ranch KOA Campground. All opinions and adventures are my own.
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS- The Musical is has arrived at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and runs now through May 7, 2017.
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is the new Tony Award®-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.
Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award®-winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2014/15 season.
Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the complimentary tickets. All Opinions are my own.
Photo credit to Segerstrom Center
A classic is born! AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is sensational and it transported me into a world filled with romance, friendship, music, art, and ballet.
My mother has a great appreciation for classic music and theater, and I knew I had to take her to see this show. I’m thrilled that we got to spend quality time and experience the magic together.
Photo credit to Segerstrom Center
The choreography was extraordinary and executed in true art form.
My mom raved about the costumes and the set design. She was born in the nineteen thirties, and she said that the show was accurate and true to the era.
Photo credit to Segerstrom Center
The dreamlike scenes were flawless and continuously changing. We were often mesmerized and lost in a trance during the show.
The “I Got Rhythm” performance was astounding (my favorite part of the show) It is no surprise this new musical received fourteen Tony nominations.
Bravo! The audience gave the talented cast a standing ovation. This musical is simply wonderful and a MUST-SEE!
An American In Paris will be in town now through May 7, 2017!
“An American in Paris is a triumph! Pure joy!” – New York Times
“Once you’ve seen it, you’ll find it hard to settle for less ever again.” – The Wall Street Journal
Running time (approximate): 2 hours and 33 minutes
AN AMERICAN IN PARIS – THE MUSICAL
April 25th to May 7th
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA
(714) 556-2787
SCFTA.org
The highly anticipated Disneynature’s film, “Born in China” hit theaters today, and I can’t be more thrilled. Have you ever wondered how film makers are able to capture footage of animals in their natural environment? I recently was given the opportunity to speak to the producer, Roy Conli to learn more about how an amazing film like this one is created.
“Born in China” is directed by accomplished Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan, and produced by Disney’s Roy Conli and renowned nature filmmakers Brian Leith and Phil Chapman.
Disneynature, in its ongoing quest to bring the natural world to the big screen as never before, presents its most ambitious project to date, taking moviegoers on a grand journey into the wilds of China. “Born In China” follows the adventures of three animal families — the majestic panda, the savvy golden monkey, and the elusive snow leopard.
About Roy Conli
Roy Conli is an American film producer and voice actor. He won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film for the 2014 Walt Disney Animation Studios film Big Hero 6 at the 87th Academy Awards in 2015. Roy’s background includes theater and animation. This project was different than anything he has ever worked on before. In our interview, Roy talked about his movie making experience and how he was able to create a film that will be everlasting and make an impact. He is currently working on two animation projects.
I learned some interesting facts about the production. The crew, was divided into groups and assigned to an animal family. They documented the animals habits and thought processes in their natural environments. Several cameras were placed in and around the location of the animals. Roy talked about the collaboration with the Lu Chuan, and the brilliant film crew. The cinematographers worked from the early morning until the late evening. They slept in shacks or tents, to have access to the animals. The film crew also faced extreme weather conditions much like their animal friends.
Here are some excerpts from my interview with Roy Conli.
(Roy talking about the Snow Leopard cinematographer and team)
“He was 253 days shooting, over four trips, over six seasons. He was living in a little shack next to a monastery in the Sichuan, Shaanx Plateau. He and his very small team, would leave before dawn and get back after dark. And literally shoot straight for the length of their visas. Now they were coming in on journalist visas and essentially had to leave after three months. The first shot of snow leopard that we got was ninety days into his first stay. He had to leave after the first day he got the fist shot.”
Photo Credit to Disneynature
“It’s a testament of what kind of perseverance but what kind of professionals these guys are. They really track these animals and get to understand their movements, and start to understand their thought process, and what their habits and customs are. Same thing with the pandas…. Pandas are incredibly isolated and don’t like a lot of companionship around them, and they are also 800 pound animals. So a mother panda with her 800 pound cub, can be somewhat dangerous. So what the cinematographers on that crew did, was essentially put on panda suits and would put panda scent on them. You can imagine what panda scent is. And they literally kept a significant distance away.
As you build a relationship with these animals, and as those animals see that you are not a danger. Then they start getting closer and closer. So Shane for instance, on the Snow Leopard front, started about 400 meters away, with telephoto lenses and really focusing, you know and building that relationship. By the time he ended, he was somewhere between 40 and 50 meters away. So that’s like 130 to 140 feet away. Really amazing… Sometimes you look at the shot and you see the mother looking straight at camera. She’s looking straight at camera. She’s looking at Shane and saying, “You’re not coming any closer to my kids.”
I was fascinated to hear about the amount of work that is involved to create an incredible film like this one…
Photo Credit to Disneynature
The monkeys loved to perform for the cameras and the crew. This little one was totally amused.
Roy said, “The monkeys in comparison to the snow leopards, and comparison to the pandas, they wanted to come up and say hello. They actually performed for the cameras. And one of the things that you need to do when you are working with monkeys, is try to divorce yourself from that because you don’t want them to become too familiar. Because then all of a sudden, you’re doing the exactly opposite of what your are trying to do. Let nature take its course.They want to involve you in their tribe. And you have to kind of reduce that as much as possible.”
His passion for film making is transparent in this incredible film… The footage and imagery is stunning!
This movie is a MUST SEE. Go see it in theaters today!
Support World Wildlife Fund
During Born In China’s opening week (April 21-27, 2017) film proceeds will benefit the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Based on opening-week attendance, Disneynature, via the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, will make a contribution to the WWF to help protect wild pandas and snow leopards in China.
???? All opinions are my own.
as we walked to the beach. 
