“I really hated the movie, but I liked the message at the end.” That is what I told Alana when we left the theater at Universal City Walk. We just saw Dumbo a few days ago and were planning on either seeing Shazam or Hellboy. With our AMC Stubs A-List, we try to go to the movies as often as possible. Even though we love fun blockbusters, most of our favorite movies end up being smaller releases like Jiro Dreams of Sushi. I’m a sucker for anything related to nature or animals. When I saw they were playing Mia and the White Lion, I ldid a bit of research to find out more. The description gave me Life of Pi vibes; I had to see it. (I know Life of Pi had a tiger and not a lion.)
With 82% on Rotten Tomatoes, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Films like this usually need really high critic scores to be Jiro level. Otherwise, they may just come across as a bit of a mess and that was the case here. It was, for me, an unlikable attempt to balance reality and adventure. Most of the time, the events were absolutely possible. Maybe if the lion wasn’t involved, they would be. Some of the times, they were nearly impossible. It had a Gravity effect on me. I hated that Sandra Bullock and George Clooney film because it was beyond belief. I know it was a sci-fi film, but there is no way multiple events with million-to-one odds are going to happen one after another to our hero.
Even though I had issues with the writing and the main character, it was in many ways a beautiful film. The other lead, this white lion named Charlie was stunning. The sets were inspiring and the soundtrack was appealing. The acting was strong, even though I wasn’t sold on some of those accents. In their defense, it is hard to predict how the accents of their kids would turn out, all moves considered. The presence of all the animals was beyond enjoyable and the highlight was the educational aspect. Many of you already know that trophy hunting is my absolute biggest pet peeve. I think trophy hunters are the scum of the universe… the absolute weakest and most pathetic human beings. Canned hunts are the bottom of the barrel when it comes to trophy hunting. I love that this film highlighted that awful industry.
Conclusion
It is hard to figure out exactly what the director is trying to get across, but it seemed to very boldly attack South Africa and their policies that allow this cruel practice. I’m sure it is a greedy interest to bring in more tourism and boost their economy, but it is exactly what would prevent me from ever visiting their country at all. I’m not saying that as an absolute, but it is definitely a strong factor that would deter me. They did a great job making me feel connected enough to create a bond with Charlie and pay attention to the text at the end. Even though I had issues with some of it, I’m glad they made and released this film. Becoming strong enough to protect others, and not cheat to take advantage of them, is what makes you hungry and fit!
