Disneynature’s Born in China introduces audiences to China’s exotic wildlife in an all-new, big-screen adventure.  Narrated by John Krasinski, the film follows three animal families, giant pandas, snow leopards, and golden monkeys, showcased in their natural habitats.

I had the opportunity to screen Born in China when I was at the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. It was the first time I’ve ever previewed a movie before its release, so I was very excited for the experience. This was also the first Disneynature film I’ve ever seen — but I can tell you it certainly won’t be my last!

So, what did I think? I’m going to be honest with you…as I always am. Typically, I am NOT a fan of documentaries. That being said, I was fully immersed in the story line with this film. I found myself relating to the main characters. Yes, they were animals, but some of them were mothers. I found it amazing to see the similarities we share between humans and animals in regards to parenting — it all comes down to the unconditional love we have for our children, and protecting them at all costs. Born in China tells the story of three different animal families. During the film, we bounce back between the families throughout the changing seasons.

Giant Panda

YaYa is a new mom to her precious cub, MeiMei. Like most new moms, she is super over-protective and always wants to keep MeiMei within arms reach.  As a parent, it is incredibly easy to relate to YaYa’s love for her sweet cub. She deals with the struggle we all face, with letting our children grow up and be independent. It is so fascinating to watch their story because of the similarities we share. You will fall in love with the bond between the mother and cub.

Golden Snub-Nosed Monkey

TaoTao is your typical mischievous toddler. He is exceptionally silly and always looking for trouble. Every time he came on the screen, I couldn’t help but laugh at his antics — his rebellious ways and free-spirit reminded me a bit of my own 3-year old son. Watch this clip of TaoTao.  I guarantee it will make you laugh.

TaoTao is in the midst of his own life-altering event — the arrival of his new baby sister. TaoTao is dealing with the loss of being the center of attention. He’s trying to find his place in his family.  I love the humor in TaoTao’s story. He is so carefree and full of life, you can’t help but fall in love with his infectious personality.

Snow Leopard

I immediately fell in love with Dawa, the mother snow leopard, and her cubs. China’s Qinghai Plateau, the highest mountain plateau on Earth, is home to these stunning and elusive snow leopards. In fact, producer Roy Conli said that it took the crew 8 days to reach the filming location of the snow leopards! They were by far, the most difficult animal to film.

Dawa’s story showed the harsh reality of the environment these animals live in. Sometimes, it’s hard. Dawa struggles with providing for her young cubs, but she is determined and never quits. Dawa is a fierce warrior who will do whatever it takes to protect and provide for her cubs.

During our interview with producer Roy Conli my biggest takeaway was that when filming a Disneynature film, the producers don’t go in with a script. They just film the animals in their natural environment. The animals write the story — this gives us a true glimpse into their lives, which makes it even more heartwarming.

“The film explores the circle of life in a very emotional and uplifting way,” says producer Roy Conli. “Each story depicts a reality of life that is somehow reflective of our own human experience. It’s compelling to see how animals share certain values that we hold dear.”

Born in China is a NATURE documentary. Even though it’s rated G, do I feel it’s safe for kids?  Both my 7-year old and 3-year old saw the film with me at Disney Social Media Moms. I was actually quite surprised that it kept my youngest attention. I think the frequent bouncing back-and-forth between story lines helped to keep him engaged. My oldest son loved the film. There were some scary and sad parts (including the death of a main character), but there wasn’t anything too graphic.

You will want to make sure you stay throughout the entire ending credits of the film for some adorably fun outtakes of the animals.

The film represents the circle-of-life — from birth to death. I found it uplifting and relatable. It is a family-friendly film that opens your eyes and heart to these beautiful animals.

Born in China opens on Earth Day, April 21, 2017. Be sure to see it in theaters opening week (April 21 – April 27, 2017), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) will make a contribution to help protect wild pandas and snow leopards in China.

Have you ever seen a Disneynature film? Are you going to see Born in China?

Like Disneynature on Facebook: Facebook.com/Disneynature

Follow Disneynature on Twitter: Twitter.com/Disneynature

Follow Disneynature on Tumbler: http://disneynature.tumblr.com/

Follow Disneynature on Instagram: http://instagram.com/disneynature

Visit the official BORN IN CHINA website: http://nature.disney.com/born-in-china

BORN IN CHINA is rated G and opens in theatres everywhere April 21st!