Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Tree

It seemed only natural that the water scene with Uncle Louie, Benny and Bernice would be shot at Pinto Lake in Watsonville. It's been a special place for director Al Russell and producers Joe Izzo and Joe Mangelli for many years. Al, Joe I, Joe M and longtime friend Todd Anderson along with various friends and family have been making a pilgrimage to the famous tree at Pinto Lake every Christmas for over 18 years. They go to renew their lives, to give thanks and gratitude and to reflect.

Joe Izzo, Joe Mangelli and Al Russell

There is a strong sense of spiritual energy here. It is reported that the Virgin Mary appeared here in 1992 to a mother searching for divine help. On a tree overlooking the water many can see the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The image can be seen on the tree trunk on the right.



We gathered up the equipment and hiked down to the tree on the water. Joe Izzo's sister Cynthia traveled from southern California to spend the day with us and lend a hand.

It was a beautiful day with dark blue skies and billowy clouds. The murky waters created a very serene setting with the sound of the ducks, a light breeze and the reeds and clouds reflecting in the water.


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