This Earth Day, Disneynature invites audiences on an emotional journey through India’s wild forests with the debut of the Disneynature Tiger documentary, streaming exclusively on Disney+ beginning April 22, 2024.
Meet Ambar, Queen of the Jungle
At the heart of the 90-minute film is Ambar, a young tigress fiercely devoted to her four playful cubs. With patience, strength, and boundless love, Ambar raises her family in a region filled with beauty—and danger. From bear encounters to rival tigers, she navigates a dense jungle filled with surprises.
Narrated by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the story delivers both breathtaking visuals and emotional depth as viewers witness the cubs grow from wobbly explorers to confident young tigers.
A Decade in the Making
According to director Mark Linfield, the Disneynature Tiger documentary was nearly a decade in development. Though Disney originally proposed the idea 11 years ago, early limitations in camera technology and access to suitable habitats paused progress.
Producer Roy Conli recalled the moment inspiration truly struck: “Nine years ago, I did a little straw poll at the studio about everyone’s favorite animal—and the answer was overwhelmingly the tiger.”
Thanks to improved tiger populations in India, increased support from local communities, and advances in remote camera technology, the team was finally ready to tell this long-awaited story. Linfield and co-directors Vanessa Berlowitz and Rob Sullivan, with producer Conli, filmed for over 1,500 days to authentically capture Ambar’s journey.
Technology Meets Wilderness
Filming in the tiger’s natural habitat without disturbing them was essential. The crew used MōVi Carbon cameras, remote rigs, and camera traps mounted on jeeps to provide sweeping views and intimate close-ups—safely and silently. “Setting up remote cameras was a game changer,” Linfield shared during a press event.
The result is a stunning documentary filled with exhilarating chases, quiet bonding moments, and breathtaking scenery—all woven into a narrative that feels both intimate and epic.
Familiar Echoes of Disney Tigers
Conli playfully acknowledged some familiar tiger inspirations. “There’s definitely a Shere Khan essence in Shankar,” he said, referring to a massive male tiger in the film. Though imposing, Shankar isn’t a villain—he’s simply a dominant tiger defending his territory.
Meanwhile, Ambar’s nurturing side may remind viewers of Rajah, the loyal protector from Aladdin. She is equal parts strength and serenity, embodying the spirit of motherhood in the wild.
Tigers on the Rise: A Powerful Companion Film
Alongside Tiger, Disneynature also presents Tigers on the Rise, a companion film directed by Rob Sullivan and narrated by Blair Underwood. This film shifts focus to the real-life conservation efforts that are helping tigers and humans coexist in harmony.
Through Tigers on the Rise, viewers will meet the individuals on the ground who are making a lasting impact. From wildlife rangers to local villagers, this film celebrates the triumph of teamwork in protecting one of the world’s most majestic species.
