BEE-hind the Scenes: an animated short film about a bee!

My name is Abigail Antonela González-Montion. Everyone calls me Tony. 

I study Environmental Biology and Film Arts at Pima Community College (PCC). In my previous General Biology course, we joined the Tucson Bee Collaborative (TBC) and contributed to the associated educational and research initiatives. In this program, we study bee DNA, focusing on DNA extraction and sequencing, with the ultimate goal of bee biodiversity and habitat conservation. When I first met my bee, it’s safe to say, I was completely starstruck. She is magnificent! Her chubby fuzzy body perfectly matches her sparkly reflective eyes. I couldn’t help myself. I excitedly named her BEADY, for her big beady brown eyes. Shortly after our meeting, I was assigned a graphic novel storyboard in my film class, where I first decided to explore BEADY’s story. Later, I attempted my first animated short film for my final project, and this is how BEADY’s story finally came to life. 

Please enjoy this video. I aim to inspire your childlike wonder and conservational relationship with nature’s glory. 

Special appreciation to Professor Katcher for this lab and research experience, my film teacher Linette Shorr-Moore for creative support, and Raine Ikagawa for the opportunity to share my video with the science community. 

Tony González-Montion
She/Her/Hers
abigailgm825@gmail.com