Pleasurewood Hills Owl In Robin Hood

An eagle owl from Pleasurewood Hills has won a role in the new Robin Hood film which opened at cinemas nationwide this week.

Zeus, an eight year old eagle owl, was selected by the film’s director Ridley Scott and after travelling to a casting in London, was requested for a full day on set to accompany actress Dame Eileen Atkins in an atmospheric 15second clip which appears halfway through the film.

Preparations for his big-screen appearance involved work with Pleasurewood Hills’ animal trainer Tracy Jacobs. Tracy spent time working with Zeus to ensure his landing, flying and resting were perfected ahead of his day on set. Tracy, who has been an animal trainer at the theme park for seven years, has worked with Zeus for two of those.

Tracy sayss: “Zeus is a true star! He’s a very well behaved animal and took well to his time on set. He’s excellent to work with and did us all proud on the day!”

 Zeus’ owner Anthony Bloom, who accompanied the bird during his time on set, adds: “Zeus is a natural. You only get out of owls what you put in, and Tracy has worked hard to make him a consummate professional. It’s great to see a local animal used in a film that will be seen all around the world”