The Last Lions (2011) Review in 2025
The Last Lions is a documentary film that follows the story of a lioness named Ma di Tau and her pride in Botswana's Okavango Delta. The film showcases the beauty and majesty of lions in their natural habitat, but also highlights the threats they face due to human activities.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some intense and disturbing scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is worth watching for its stunning cinematography and important message. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to some intense and disturbing scenes.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film's main plot revolves around Ma di Tau, a lioness who becomes the leader of her pride after her mother's death. She faces numerous challenges, including poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict, which ultimately lead to the decline of her pride. The film's climax features a heart-wrenching scene where Ma di Tau's cubs are killed by a rival pride, leaving her alone and vulnerable.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-structured, but it lacks a clear narrative arc. The film's focus on the decline of lions in the wild is timely and important, but it could have been explored more deeply.
acting5.00/10
The acting is minimal, but it serves its purpose. The narration by Kevin Richardson is engaging and informative.
characters6.00/10
The characters are well-represented, but they lack depth and development. Ma di Tau is the most compelling character, but even her story is somewhat one-dimensional.
direction8.00/10
The direction is excellent, with stunning cinematography and a clear vision for the film. The use of music and sound design is also noteworthy.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning footage of lions in their natural habitat. The use of drone footage is particularly impressive.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Last Lions is a visually stunning film with an important message about the decline of lions in the wild. The cinematography is breathtaking, and the direction is excellent.
Cons
The story is somewhat one-dimensional, and the characters lack depth and development. The acting is minimal, but it serves its purpose.
Notable Quotes
"The last lions are a symbol of our planet's beauty and our own mortality."
"We are the ones who are killing the lions, and we are the ones who can save them."
