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
Exclusive Interview with Deven Mack and Logan McPherson for “Sonic Prime”
It’s official guys…
Sonic Prime is now streaming on Netflix!
Last week, we spoke to voice actor Devin Mack (Sonic) and Senior Vice President of Creative Animated Productions Logan McPherson. There is so much to look forward to in this series, you definitely don’t want to miss it!
Sonic Prime is a animated adventure series from Netflix, Sega, WildBrain and Man Of Action Entertainment. The series is based on the beloved video game franchise and premieres worldwide on December 15th 2022.
Check out our exclusive interview here!
Taking on the role of our favorite spiky-haired blue hedgehog is Deven Christian Mack. He has many voice roles such as King Vangelis in LEGO: Ninjago, Chuck in Angry Birds: Summer Madness, and Wynton Styles in Bakugan: Battle Planet.
Watch the official trailer here.
Premise
During a battle with Dr. Eggman, Sonic recklessly destroys an artifact called the Paradox Prism, which shatters the universe and sends him and his friends tumbling through parallel dimensions called “Shatterspaces.” Seeking to restore the universe and save his friends (whom up until the moment he had taken for granted), Sonic races through the “Shatterverse”, encountering alternate versions of his friends and Shadow the Hedgehog while fighting the Chaos Council, a group of dictators made up of five alternate versions of Eggman.
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.
NETFLIX: The Weekend Away- Girls Getaway Gone Wrong
What are your streaming on NETFIX this weekend?
I have a great recommendation for you! The Weekend Away is NOW available on NETFLIX. This movie is buzzing and ranking #4 on it’s streaming service today. It is no surprise because this movie is full of suspense and is a fantastic thriller.
Earlier this week, we spoke to book author and screenwriter Sarah Alderson and lead actress Leighton Meester. Check out our exclusive interview below.
Thank you NETFLIX for partnering on this post. All opinion are my own.
A weekend getaway to Croatia that goes awry when a woman is accused of killing her best friend. As she attempts to clear her name and uncover the truth, her efforts unearth a painful secret.
Two best friends, Kate and Orla who have overcome personal setbacks and no matter what life throws at them, they always look forward to their annual weekend way. This year they are on a trip to Croatia, and everything is perfect until Orla wakes up to find Kate missing. With only a fuzzy memory of the previous night and the police not helping, her frantic search uncovers devastating secrets closer to home.
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!
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.
JINGLE JANGLE: A CHRISTMAS JOURNEY (2020)
Dianna Babnicova as Young Jessica, Justin Cornwell Cornwell as Young Jeronicus and Sharon Rose as Joanne.
Cr.Gareth Gatrell/NETFLIX
The holidays have been difficult this year, with quarantine among us. Our family has done little things to try and get into the Christmas spirit, which includes excessive cookie making, an extremely large hot cocoa consumption, and movie binging. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a delightful way to get into the Christmas Spirit. This holiday season, my son and I had the amazing opportunity to interview this talented cast, while also prescreening the film.
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.
JINGLE JANGLE: A CHRISTMAS JOURNEY (2020)
John Legend and Madalen Mills on the set of Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey.
Cr.Gareth Gatrell/NETFLIX
From the imagination of writer-director David E. Talbert, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey reminds us of the strength of family and the power of possibility. Featuring original songs by John Legend, Philip Lawrence, Davy Nathan, and “This Day” performed by Usher and Kiana Ledé.
Director David E. Talbert and Producer Lyn Sisson-Talbert paired
Madalen Mills, Kieron Dyer, and Lisa Davina Phillip paired
After watching this movie on repeat, sometimes I catch my son humming the tunes from the movie while completing his daily routine, and sometimes…I sing along. This charming film follows a classic theme, while beautifully achieving a long overdue diverse cast. Here’s what this phenomenal cast and director had to ay about the film.
