Huck Finn & Friends: The making of a movie short

The director of March of the Penguin and Baby and Babies Meet Jaws: When Jaws returns to the Willamette met with us to discuss her latest projects as the filming for Babies Meet Jaws wrapped. Here's what she had to say.

You've recently completed two projects with Henry Finn. Where do you find the time?
That can be tricky. But being a stay-at-home mom-director helps. For the most part I'm able to work around Henry Finn's schedule. On the rare occasion we have to shoot into nap time, well, you saw the result of that in March of the Penguin and Baby.

Are you referring to the general crankiness exhibited by Henry Finn on that shoot?
Yes. He was certainly unhappy. Consider the extreme temperature, the fact that he had to eat ice cubes for sustenance during the project, and that his costar was an uncommunicative penguin. That would make the best of us a little cranky.
Your latest project introduces the first of perhaps many leading ladies for Henry Finn. What was it like working with two babies?
A blast. I enjoy Henry, of course, but working with Avery was a dream. I believe she's a student of method acting and it showed in her performance. I'd love to work with her again.

Both babies seemed genuinely happy to be on set and working with each other. Were there any fireworks between the two?
There really was chemistry on the set. From the beginning, they were casting shy glances at each other and reaching out to one another. It was sweet.
What about the sun? Were there any concerns about sun damage due to the long shooting schedule?
Unlike Henry's previous movie shorts, this project did require shooting over a period of two days. We took the appropriate steps to ensure both babies were well protected against the elements. I believe Miss Avery was wearing California Baby sunscreen and Henry was using sunscreen from the Mustela line. We worked as fast as we could to get the shots needed and get the kids back under cover. And, as you saw in the film, when not in the shade both babies were wearing hats.
And how was it working with a Hank Toothsome on the Jaws remake?
Hank is a really great shark. Absolutely professional. He's been staying with us since signing on to do this project and he and Henry have formed a great bond. He doesn't mind pitching in to help. With Beauty the wonder dog walking alongside him and Hank pushing the stroller, there aren't many dangers that could come to Henry when he goes for a walk in the park.
We actually have a clip of three of you when you finished wrapping. Here's what Hank had to say about his day on set.

Hank Toothsome Interview from Christie on Vimeo.