GROUNDBREAKING INTERNATIONAL DINOSAUR DOCUMENTARY SET TO PREMIERE IN HOLLYWOOD
Friday, November 3, 2023
6:30 - 7:30 PM - Red Carpet / Cocktail Reception
7:30 - 8:00 PM - Introduction by Dr. Dean Lomax
8:00 - 9:30 PM - Screening
9:30 - 10:30 PM - Q&A Panel
Location:
Attire:
Semi-formal (ties optional)
Media/Tickets:
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – The highly anticipated, independent documentary “WHY DINOSAURS?” will be revealed at a star-studded, red carpet premiere on November 3rd in the heart of Hollywood. Written and directed by father and teenage son--Tony and James Pinto--both first-time filmmakers, this 6-year passion project first gained traction on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo.
“WHY DINOSAURS?” follows dino-obsessed teenager James and his father on a journey around the world, interviewing over 65 seasoned paleontologists, amateur fossil hunters, artists, and dinosaur fanatics from the United States, Canada, UK, Morocco, China, and Patagonia. On this global adventure, together they track down the director of Jurassic World, see the world’s largest dinosaur toy collection, and dig up real dinosaur bones.
“From museums and university dinosaur displays, to blockbuster films, amusement park rides, video games, and toys--dinosaurs appeal to people of all ages around the globe. But, why?” said James Pinto, who also narrates and appears throughout the film. “This movie explores the myriad ways in which men, women, and children around the globe connect with these awe-inspiring prehistoric animals, and also provides a unique look into the lives and careers of paleontologists.”
The filmmakers Tony and James Pinto at the Natural History Museum of Utah.
“Besides spending quality time with my teenage son, one of my favorite experiences was traveling to Budapest, Hungary, to record the John Williams-inspired original soundtrack by an extremely talented music composer, Raphaël Dargent,” said Tony Pinto. “We also had to find creative ways to work around COVID-19 travel restrictions as well as James leaving for college before the film was finished.”
“Even for people like me, there was so much I learned from the film," said Dr. Philip Currie, Paleontologist and University of Alberta Professor.
"The film has a lot of warmth and emotion, and the time and effort put into it really shows," said Dr. Nizar Ibrahim, Paleontologist and National Geographic Explorer.
“WHY DINOSAURS?” is such a gem of a documentary. It really shows how big the dinosaur fandom is--from collectors and artists, to the professionals that have dedicated their lives to learning more about these amazing animals and the world they lived in,” said Kallie Moore, University of Montana Paleontologist and Host of PBS Eons. “And while “Jurassic Park” is a major part of this fandom that created generations of fans (and paleontologists), “WHY DINOSAURS?” highlights many of the other reasons why people of all ages love dinosaurs.”
“WHY DINOSAURS?” is G-rated, 90 minutes long, and anticipated to be available for purchase or streaming in early 2024. For media screeners, passes to the premiere, or interviews, please contact Producer Tony Pinto.
“WHY DINOSAURS?” isn’t the traditional computer-generated dinosaur reconstructions and celebrity-narrated prehistoric documentary,” said Producer Tony Pinto, who also primarily filmed and edited. “Instead, we introduce the genuine voices of working paleontologists, science communicators, artists, and dinosaur fanatics to tell a brief history of paleontology and explore the world’s fascination with dinosaurs in popular culture.”
“This film is for everyone who ever played with dinosaurs as a kid, wanted to be a paleontologist and dig up dinosaurs, or loved movies like “Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic World,” said acclaimed British palaeontologist, author and TV host Dr. Dean Lomax, who also appears in the film and is an Executive Producer. “It’s a timeless story that will inspire girls and boys across the planet to pursue science in a variety of disciplines--not just Paleontology--as well as boost attendance at natural history museums for decades to come.”
World-renowned British palaeontologist Dr. Dean Lomax alongside the "Rutland Sea Dragon."
James Pinto
Tony Pinto
AN ENSEMBLE CAST
James and Tony have interviewed a wide array of dinosaur enthusiasts, from seasoned paleontologists and amateur fossil hunters to paleo artists and dinosaur fanatics from all walks of life. (See the full list of interviewees and learn more about the project.)
