RETURN TO NEVER LANd

Director; Walt Disney Pictures

This proved to be a rare and memorable opportunity to study great art direction while having the privilege of directing this Disney feature. This sequel to the famous Peter Pan is the story of grown-up Wendy's young daughter Jane, when it is her turn to experience adventures in Never Land. To tell her story, Disney Studios offered us access to their legendary vaults. Here I was able to gain valuable insights into the art of theatrical lighting and staging. Disney animators paid constant attention to the dark-against-light, or light-against dark contrast, and the technique of guiding the viewer's eye to the character on screen. In order to remain true to the "feel" of the 1953 original Peter Pan, we pored over every detail available to us with tremendous care and affection. Tinkerbell remains a particular favourite of mine!

Our team relied on impeccable story communication, as we were combining efforts over three different production studios, thousands of miles apart, around the world, while working under rotating Disney executives. We relentlessly reworked our story reels and accomplished solid results.