How Inside Out Influenced a Magical Moment in Wizards Beyond Waverly Place!

Danielle Fishel, recognized primarily for her role as Topanga Lawrence on Disney Channel’s “Boy Meets World,” has moved into the director’s chair. Some of her recent projects include directing episodes of “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.” In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Fishel discussed a memorable moment from Pixar that served as inspiration for an episode of the current series starring Justin Russo (previously played by David Henrie). Fishel disclosed to the publication how the scene involving a switchboard in the episode titled ‘Potions Eleven’ was inspired by the “headquarters” in Pixar’s “Inside Out,” where Riley’s emotions reside. However, in “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” we get a glimpse into Justin’s mind for just a few minutes, revealing a new realm of emotions. [Spoiler alert: The following information pertains to episode 11!]

At a poignant yet chaotic point, the scene delves into Justin’s thoughts as numerous children are playing wildly. Fishel mentioned that the reference to Pixar’s “Inside Out” was purposeful, sharing: “It was one of the inspirations for the set design. I saw the plans before I even stepped onto the set; they sent me a drawing of what the set would look like. It seemed so futuristic and cool that I couldn’t fully grasp it. When I arrived on set and saw it, it was breathtakingly beautiful.

She noted, “The arrangement was challenging as well since it required a certain depth and there was plenty of activity happening within it. Consequently, we required spaces for actors to maneuver; the moving wall being one such element. It made filming somewhat tricky, but overall, it was an exciting set to work on.

As a devoted film enthusiast, I can tell you that the sitcom veteran had an intriguing approach to directing a particular scene. She was absolutely clear about her vision for it, so much so that she even staged it as a play-like rehearsal for the showrunners. Here’s how I would explain it: “During our rehearsals, especially when the kids were supposed to be in David Henrie’s mind, and something was happening on the schoolroom set for our run-throughs – essentially, when we perform the show for the writers and producers – we’d keep the kids off to the side wherever David Henrie was. This way, the crew didn’t have to rush between sets. Instead, they could simply visualize that they were on the other set, which made timing smoother and added a comedic touch.

The director of “Raven’s Home” shared insights about how directing became her vocation, having worked on and off-set during “Girl Meets World.” Initially considering a career in counseling, Rider Strong’s co-star (from Boy Meets World) decided to pursue this path when the chance for the show’s sequel presented itself. As her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy was being completed, she largely stepped away from acting.

Initially, I exclaimed, “Wow, that’s an extraordinary opportunity!” As I delved into the role, however, I discovered, “Ah, this is precisely what I was meant to do – directing. And moreover, working with upcoming talents, it feels like a means of returning the favor to my younger self.

As a seasoned filmmaker with nearly five decades of television directing under my belt, I’ve grown accustomed to the other side of the camera. Yet, the allure of an intriguing role beckons, making a return to acting a tantalizing prospect. Whispers of a project in the works hint at me potentially stepping back into the spotlight as an actor, though my heart lies in the director’s chair where I find my true passion and devotion.

The spinoff series of “Wizards of Waverly Place” focuses on Justin Russo, now an adult, leading a typical life in Staten Island with his wife and two boys. However, his tranquil existence is disrupted when his sister Alex (Selena Gomez) asks for help with Billie, a young girl learning to harness her magical abilities.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place is streaming on Disney+.

2025-01-22 05:40

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