Independent Filmmaking

**Chris Darwa** brings his brand of unstoppable Australian comedy to the stage, along with a mix of hilarious friends from the Swiss Comedy scene, some experimenting with new material, others honing their act, either way, your Tuesday is sure to end pissing yourself with laughs. **[Tickets here on EventFrog](https://eventfrog.ch/downunder)** Find out more about Chris Darwa on instagram **[@chrisdarwa](https://instagram.com/chrisdarwa)**. * **Doors Open**: 19:15 * **Show Begin**: 19:30

*English description below* Come un bookclub ma per i podcast. Ogni mese ci ritroviamo per parlare di un podcast che abbiamo ascoltato e scambiarci pareri, opinioni e consigli su nuovi e possibili ascolti. Per l'ultimo appuntamento della terza stagione di P.A.Z. - Podcast Ascolti Zurigo ascoltiamo ***Botanismi***, un podcast un podcast scritto, registrato e prodotto da Giacomo Bagni e Veronica Lugaro, con i contenuti scientifici a cura di Sole Calbi, prodotto con il supporto di Alle Ortiche. Puoi ascoltarlo su: * [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/0kcSx15DGsvcGv2mx9yT5u?si=cb56198689e842b4 "https://open.spotify.com/show/0kcSx15DGsvcGv2mx9yT5u?si=cb56198689e842b4") * [Apple Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/it/podcast/botanismi/id1788377272 "https://podcasts.apple.com/it/podcast/botanismi/id1788377272") * [Spreaker](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/botanismi--6469032 "https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/botanismi--6469032") **Per festeggiare la fine di questa stagione, accendiamo la griglia! Ognuno porterà il cibo da cucinare sul posto e le proprie bevande.** ### Botanismi *Botanismi* è un piccolo viaggio nel mondo vegetale, animato dal tentativo di connettere le nostre umane esperienze a tutto il verde che ci circonda e di cui spesso ci dimentichiamo, persi nelle nostre complicate vite di animali. Micro racconti sonori che, tra narrazione vera e propria e pillole di nozioni scientifiche, ti trasporteranno in un mondo pieno di clorofilla. Mettiti le cuffie, chiudi gli occhi e rilassati. ***Botanismi*** Scritto, registrato e prodotto da **Giacomo Bagni** e **Veronica Lugaro** Contenuti scientifici a cura di **Sole Calbi** Prodotto con il supporto di **Alle Ortiche** Sound design a cura di **Giacomo Bagni** e **Veronica Lugaro** Intro/outro: Jumbel by **Blue Dot Sessions** **Cosa è P.A.Z. Podcast Ascolti Zurigo?** Il miglior modo per conoscere un podcast è il passaparola. Solitamente questo viaggia attraverso i social media. P.A.Z., acrononimo che sta per Podcast Ascolti Zurigo nasce per scoprire cose nuove da ascoltare e avere la possibilità di parlarne con altri, in persona. Come un bookclub, ma per i podcast. **FAQ** **Posso venire anche se non ho ascoltato tutto il podcast?** Certo, puoi venire anche se non hai sentito tutto il podcast (ma se lo hai ascoltato è meglio). **Il podcast da ascoltare è sempre in italiano?** Sì, al momento P.A.Z. si vuole concentrare sui podcast di lingua italiana e chiunque parli italiano è il/la benvenuto/a. **Mi piace ma non riesco a esserci, cosa posso fare?** Unisciti a questo gruppo, oppure alla community su [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DBWV6im8RDe98hrP5ehH60), ci sarà modo per aggiornarti sui prossimi appuntamenti. ***English Version*** Like a book club, but for podcasts. Every month, we meet to discuss a podcast we’ve listened to, sharing thoughts, opinions, and recommendations for future listens. For the last event of P.A.Z. - Podcast Ascolti Zurigo's third season, we're listening to *Botanismi*, a podcast written, recorded and produced by Giacomo Bagni and Veronica Lugaro, with scientific content by Sole Calbi, produced with the support of Alle Ortiche. You can listen to it on: * [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/0kcSx15DGsvcGv2mx9yT5u?si=cb56198689e842b4 "https://open.spotify.com/show/0kcSx15DGsvcGv2mx9yT5u?si=cb56198689e842b4") * [Apple Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/it/podcast/botanismi/id1788377272 "https://podcasts.apple.com/it/podcast/botanismi/id1788377272") * [Spreaker](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/botanismi--6469032 "https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/botanismi--6469032") **And to celebrate the end of the season, we're firing up the grill! Everyone is welcome to bring their own food to cook and drinks to share.** ***Botanismi*** *Botanismi* is a small journey into the plant world, driven by the desire to connect our human experiences to all the green that surrounds us — and that we so often forget about, lost as we are in our complicated lives as animals. Bite-sized sonic stories that blend genuine storytelling with nuggets of scientific knowledge, transporting you into a world full of chlorophyll. Put on your headphones, close your eyes, and relax. ***Botanismi*** Written, recorded and produced by **Giacomo Bagni** and **Veronica Lugaro** Scientific content by **Sole Calbi** Produced with the support of **Alle Ortiche** Sound design by **Giacomo Bagni** and **Veronica Lugaro** Intro/outro: Jumbel by **Blue Dot Sessions** **What is P.A.Z. – Podcast Ascolti Zurigo?** The best way to discover a great podcast is through word of mouth. Usually, that happens on social media. P.A.Z. (Podcast Ascolti Zurigo) was created to explore new podcasts and discuss them with others—in person. Like a book club, but for podcasts. **Is there an entry fee?** The event is free (it would be nice to know how many of us are coming, so if you can, RSVP for free here). Everyone is free to order something at the bar at their own expense. **Do I need to have listened to the entire podcast?** No, you can come even if you haven't heard the entire podcast (but it's better if you have). **Is the podcast to listen to always in Italian?** Yes, currently, P.A.Z. aims to focus on Italian-language podcasts, and anyone who speaks Italian is welcome. **I like it but I can't be there, what can I do?** Feel free to contact me via the email you find on Eventbrite, and I will be able to keep you updated on upcoming events.

Weg vom Bildschirm und von vorgegebenen Lösungen – hinein in die unbegrenzte Kreativität der realen Welt! In diesem Kurs lernen die Kinder auch auf spielerische Weise, ihre Umwelt wahrzunehmen, zu schätzen und darzustellen. Ausserdem tasten sie sich an ihre eigenen Vorlieben und Begabungen heran und erleben die Begeisterung, eigenhändig Kunstwerke zu erschaffen. Unter professioneller Beratung und individueller Betreuung wird in kleinen Gruppen (ausser in den Schulferien) gearbeitet. **Einstieg und Probeunterricht:** ist jederzeit möglich. **Auskunft und Anmeldung:** marianas@gmx.ch \* 078 628 78 24 \* www.marianas.ch **Dienstags in Zürich**, GBMZ Sieglungslokal an der Hohlstrasse 197, von 17:00 bis 19:00 Uhr **Freitags in Illnau:** von 13:15 bis 15:15 Uhr und von 15:30 bis 17:30Uhr und **samstags in Illnau:** von 10:00 bis 12:00 Uhr **Kurskosten** (inkl. Materialkosten)**:** 4 x 120 Min. = 200 Fr.

Dies ist ein informelles Treffen für Lernende, die ihre ersten Schritte in der Programmierung machen oder ihre Grundkenntnisse vertiefen möchten. *** This is an informal meetup, for learners that want to do their first steps in programming or want to consolidate their skills. We spend one hour and a half working on tutorials, exercises or projects. If you need help to get started, we will help you finding a good way for learning. You should be prepared to spend your time "doing things": just hanging around and listening might get boring, if all other people are learning on their side. There are experienced people are around and you can ask questions as soon as their arise or bring with you questions you have had during the week. During the last half an hour, we do a (simple) exercise together. We speak German, English, and a few other languages. Currently, how main programming languages are: * Python * Javascript * Java * Flutter * C++ * C * C# * PHP But you're free to learn any programming language during our Co-Learning! If you want to learn more about our Co-Learning, please have a look at our website (no frequent updates...): https://opentechschool-zurich.github.io/ If you're starting with Python, we can suggest: * Learning Python the hard way (https://learnpythonthehardway.org/python3/) (for Python 3). * The Solo Learn Python 3 Tutorial (https://www.sololearn.com/Course/Python/). * A big list of Python tutorials: https://docs.python-guide.org/intro/learning/ For Node.js: * Nodeschool: https://nodeschool.io/ For C++ * https://de.wikibooks.org/wiki/C%2B%2B-Programmierung * https://www.sololearn.com/Course/CPlusPlus/

Join us for the final screening of the series dedicated to the marine life preservation hosted by the International volunteers of WWF. We close the series with *Sonic Sea* — a powerful and award-winning documentary that explores the hidden impact of ocean noise pollution on marine life. Through stunning visuals and compelling stories, the film reveals how human-made sound affects whales, dolphins and the delicate balance of our oceans. This special closing event is an opportunity to reflect, connect and continue the conversation about protecting our planet’s ecosystems. After the screening, we invite everyone to stay for a short discussion and informal networking. 📍 Hosted by WWF International Volunteers 🎬 Film: *Sonic Sea* 🌍 Final screening of the documentary series We look forward to sharing this meaningful evening with you.

Are you working on a side hustle, launching your own app, or building an online business? If so, join our **Shipped Meetup!** This group is for **bootstrappers, side hustlers, and independent founders** looking to exchange ideas, get feedback, and support each other on the journey to building profitable businesses without venture capital. What we do each meetup: **\- Share success stories / progress** **\- Meet others via speed dating** **\- Present projects** **\- Ask questions** This isn’t a typical networking event, there are **no sales pitches, no fees, just real conversations and support** from like-minded entrepreneurs. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, join us for our next meetup! Let’s build a thriving indie community together. Looking forward to seeing you there! Also, feel free to join our socials using the links below👇

Whether you're just getting started or want to try something new, this class is about visual exploration without any level pressure. Together, we’ll swap the fear of getting it wrong for the fun of discovering what’s possible. In the drawing days, we’ll cover the basics like shapes, shading, and perspective, and try out approaches like still life, improvisation, and life drawing. 12 Drawing/Printmaking Sessions This is an art class that brings together the freedom of drawing and the playfulness of printmaking! All in a cozy, welcoming space of Zimmerli atelier and Mathias Gentinetta’s Workshop! In the printmaking days, we’ll experiment with: * TETRA PAK PRINTING turning recycled cartons into art * MONOTYPE spontaneous, expressive mark-making * COLLAGRAPHS using natural and found textures to create prints * LINOPRINT / WOODCUT traditional technique of printmaking with open possibilities of experimentation. * COLLECTIVE PRINTMAKING Big scale print from everyones prints. * ENGRAVING / ETCHING Printmaking lessons will be with Mathias Gentinetta and Artemis Tsakiri. The Workshops will be a cycle of 12 Sessions and it costs 660.- But if you don’t know yet, you can just come and try out :) * 12/3 – Printmaking * 19/3 – Drawing * 26/3 – Printmaking * 9/4 – Drawing * 16/4 - Printmaking * 7/5 - Drawing * 14/5 - Printmaking * 21/5 - Drawing * 28/5 - Printmaking * 4/6 - Drawing * 11/6 - Printmaking * 18/6 - Drawing

**Directed by [Ken Loach](https://www.festival-cannes.com/en/p/ken-loach/).** Named by the British Film Institute as one of the ten best British films of the century. **Please RSVP on Meetup if you plan to attend! Buy your ticket in advance at the link below. We'll meet at the entrance to the movie theater at 18:00. The screening begins at 18:30.** *Ken Loach’s Kes, is cinema’s quintessential portrait of working-class Northern England. Billy (an astonishingly naturalistic David Bradley) is a fifteen-year-old miner’s son whose close bond with a wild kestrel provides him with a spiritual escape from his dead-end life. Kes brought to the big screen the sociopolitical engagement Loach had established in his work for the BBC, and pushed the British “angry young man” film of the sixties into a new realm of authenticity, using real locations and nonprofessional actors. Loach’s poignant coming-of-age drama remains the now legendary director’s most beloved and influential film.* *Source: [The Criterion Collection](https://www.criterion.com/films/27560-kes)* **Please [buy your ticket online in advance](https://filmpodium.ch/film/172549/kes) to secure your spot. Seats cannot be reserved online, so we will coordinate seating arrangements at the theater before the screening. It's important to arrive early to pick up your tickets, so please be at Xenix by 18:15 at the latest. After the movie, we'll gather in the lobby for a beverage and discussion of the film.**

Hello dear Challengers, if you wish to join the Limmat swim and strengthen your body, join me to that swim. I will give you a short introduction on the "why" you should do it and then you will tell me if you want to do it. I am a trained lifeguard (SLRG), I did also the Hypothermia Module and I am swimming in the cold since 2015. Take with you all the necessary to swim, flip/flop, safe buoy (something like the orange donut here below, if you have it) and a Thermos. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/a/7/5/600_466843637.jpeg See you there! Massimo ps: Limmat temperature https://www.zh.ch/de/umwelt-tiere/wasser-gewaesser/messdaten/wassertemperaturen.html

**Got something you’re designing, experimenting with - or just looking to chat with other creatives?** **Then you’re invited to join us at sphères.** 🙂 We meet monthly to chat and connect in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s a chance to meet new people, talk about what you’re working on, and be part of Zürich’s creative community - surrounded by like-minded people who just get it. PS: RSVPs are coming in from multiple platforms, which means the total number of sign-ups is likely higher than what you see here. 🥂 **Why swing by?** * Find new collaborators, clients, employers and friends * Swap ideas, get feedback, and share experiences * Meet in a cozy after-work drinks atmosphere * Join creatives from various fields and ages. 📍 **Where?** [sphères](https://share.google/iOZR7HY6DqyLDm2Kj), next to the Limmat river. \> Hardturmstrasse 66\, 8005 Zürich (Tram-Station Förrlibuckstrasse) ⏰ **When?** Every second Thursday of the month, starting at 6 PM / 18:00 Uhr 🔗 **Discord link** Get event reminders and connect with other members on Discord: ➡️ [discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk](discord.gg/PAyRBDhKkk) —— **Who’s Visual Fields?** Visual Fields is a network of designers and creatives built for people to connect, support, and share with fellow experts. We have upcoming events in Zürich, Basel, and Luzern. [Check out upcoming events](https://www.visualfields.ch/) —— **Event policies** We have zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Be mindful not to make assumptions about gender, sexual orientation, or identity. Always ask for consent - for physical contact and work critique - and treat everyone and the space with respect. [All policies](https://experienc.es/policies) **Fine print (the friendly kind)** By joining, you agree that photos or videos taken at the event may be used by Visual Fields for promotional and communication purposes. See you soon!! 🤩

**Our Meetup is off to another hiking adventure! Mt Kilimanjaro, as the tallest mountain in Africa, is included in the 7 Summits of the world.** **It is a bucket-list item for all hard-core hikers and mountain lovers.** We did this trek with Meetup in the summer of 2024 and it was a true experience of a lifetime (see photos below) Let's get to some numbers. It is 5,895m/19,340ft BUT . . . our starting elevation for the trek is 3795m/12541ft As such elevation gain is 2100m/6799ft To compare Everest Base Camp trek, is about 2754m/9035ft elevation change. And Mt Whitney is about 1828m/6000ft elevation change. The key to being able to succeed in this endeavor lays in the route and the support system. We are taking the Lemosho Route via the Northern Circuit. The Northern Circuit route is the longest and newest of the seven established Kilimanjaro routes. It's one of the best routes because it has the best acclimatization profile. This results in one of the highest summit success rates. Add to that stunning views, and comparatively relaxed pace. It is also much less crowded than the other Kilimanjaro routes. As far as our support system: We will be accompanied by experienced guides, porters and cooks. They are certified, ensuring our safety and comfort. Porters will carry our gear. We will have a high ratio of guides to hikers. Our guides will go our pace and support each and everyone of us, regardless of fitness level and pace. In other words...you go your own speed and we all get there safe. More about our trek/trip. As with all our international trips, we picked the best season/time of year to go for weather and wildlife. Lemosho and Northern Circuit is a scenically spectacular and varied route. At the lower elevations it has an abundance of wildlife such as elephant, buffalo, eland and lion which come over to forage during dry season. **Each of our trips is personally crafted to offer the best places and best use of time.** *But I don't have the needed gear?!* You don't need much more than the standard trekker's equipment. We will provide you with a list of what is already included and what can be rented there. *Does this include food?* All meals on the trek potion are included and a cook travels with us! *What is lodging like?* We are sleeping in new and comfortable tents (carried during the day by porters) *I am new at this.* That's OK. We do plenty of prep Zooms before we depart. And in California we have a number of local outdoor day or weekend outings you can test out with us. *How dangerous is this? What if I get sick or hurt?* We will be walking on an established, well used trail the entire time. **Our trip INCLUDES emergency insurance.** We are also Certified Wilderness First Responders and our guides are members of (AMREF) Flying Doctor. **Plain and simple, safety is our primary goal.** *How much does this cost?* **Kilimanjaro Mountain Trek $3950 per person, double occupancy. Land only (airfare not included). Solo supplement $600** Trip Cost includes: \- 9 nights accommodation \- 3 meals everyday on the trek \- All Fees & Entrances and Taxes \- Camping equipment such as tents\, tables\, chairs\. \- Lead Guide\, Assistant Guides\, Porters and Cook *RSVP to this event shows your interest, but does not hold your space.* ***The only way to secure your spot for this trip is a $300 deposit:*** ***[CLICK HERE FOR SECURE DEPOSIT LINK](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/8P9NUAVQM8UEN)*** *Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).* *IF you need an airfare quote,* [Click here to message Anna](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) For more information about this or any of our other international events, fill out this form: **[INTERNATIONAL MEETUPS INFO REQUEST](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)** To see pictures from our Kilimanjaro adventure in 2024 [CLICK HERE](https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPkfkUp6sEZVQ-xse1di_K19d1QVmSb5KOLeIjynRoWGv_XFLXI8wBfT61XxAHavg?key=U2tKajBuOGRiZkxBOUtTUG1GbUVRVmlDaERCeG5n) We do a monthly Q & A Zoom: Meet others attending, be social, or come and get any questions answered. [Click Here to RSVP to our Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/) The MAIN location where this event is posted: [https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/302872805/](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/302872805/) (RSVP there for any conversation and comments) This events is cross posted to several other groups and the number of RSVPs on each is not reflective. We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free, local/regional camping, and our overseas events too. [Click Here ](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)for our other events: Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it! SOT 200318-10

Join us for the inaugural gathering of the DC Creative Collective for Film, TV, and Theater — a welcoming space for filmmakers, writers, actors, and creative enthusiasts across the DMV to connect and create together. This first meetup will be an introduction to the collective’s vision, followed by networking, artist introductions, and an open discussion where members can share their creative interests, experience levels, and the kinds of projects they hope to collaborate on. We will also host a casual table read and idea exchange, giving participants a chance to hear scripts, workshop concepts, and meet potential collaborators for future productions. Whether you are experienced in the industry or just beginning your creative journey, come ready to build community, share stories, and help shape a collaborative artistic home where ideas move from imagination to stage and screen.

Join us at Loudoun Station District Park on Sunday for a movie + event! **Movie: Honey, I Shrunk The Kids** Come play giant Jenga and dodge floating bubbles to bring the larger-than-life backyard adventure to life!

🎉 Speed Dating \- Matrimonial Matchmaking Event for Indian Singles in the USA \| Online via Zoom ⚠️ **RSVP alone does NOT confirm your spot.** Please register via Eventbrite and complete payment. Limited spots available. 🎟 **Register Here:** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator) 👥 Age Groups 20s – [Register Here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator) 30s – [Register Here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator) 40s – [Register Here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator) 50s – [Register Here](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-singles-speed-dating-matrimonial-matchmaking-event-tickets-1990271563824?aff=oddtdtcreator) Join our **Online Indian Speed Dating Event** designed for singles who are serious about marriage and long-term relationships. A simple, structured, and comfortable way to meet compatible Indian singles—without relying on dating apps. **🔄 How It Works** • Register and secure your spot • Join Zoom (link shared before the event) • Participate in one-on-one timed conversations • Meet multiple Indian singles • Receive mutual matches after the event **✨ What to Expect** • 15-minute one-on-one conversations • Opportunity to meet multiple matches in one event • Friendly and well-organized virtual environment • Focus on serious relationships and matrimony 💻 **Event Location:** Online via Zoom **❓ Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each one-on-one conversation lasts approximately 15 minutes. **What happens after the event?** We share mutual matches so you can connect further. **What if I am shy or new to this?** The structured format and one-on-one chats make it comfortable and easy for everyone. **Do I need anything besides Zoom?** Just a stable internet connection, Zoom access, and a webcam. **Is RSVP enough to join?** No, your registration is only confirmed after completing payment on Eventbrite. 📲 Follow us on Instagram: [@gofordesi_](https://www.instagram.com/gofordesi_) WhatsApp +1 (732) 789 4636

This CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 5pm-7pm for CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the[ Silver Branch Brewing Company's Menu](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/). PARKING: Paid parking available one block away at the county's Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron Street (Better pricing than street or private parking.) See you there on 6/22/26! Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with, [TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC),[ WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video),[ Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/),[ Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), etc. Sponsored by[ Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/),[ Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership/overview), and Adobe Software.

All-American Movie Magic & More - **movie + event** Saturdays - 6:30pm to 9:00pm **June 20 - Movie: Honey, I Shrunk The Kids** Come play giant Jenga and dodge floating bubbles to bring the larger-than-life backyard adventure to reality.