Kyle Vansteelandt
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This does for documentaries what "The Lion King" did for animation. I don't even know where to start; It's just an impressive nature documentary of incredible proportions. It was visually majestic, viscerally entertaining, and technically brilliant, all thanks to Samuel L Jackson's involving narration, some of my favorite animals featured here, the highly experienced documentary filmmakers that brought us "Our Planet" and "Earth," and the fact that the animals here emote their emotions with gestures or body language, and vocalizations. It's about the lifestyles of two popular wild cats in Africa; a pride of lions called "the river pride" and a mother cheetah named Sita with her adorable cubs. It also focuses on Kali and his four adult sons. The main theme of the movie is about family (particularly motherhood), and the motherhood of these female cats have major benefits in the end. The whole story of "African Cats" is one of the most amazing reality stories ever captured on film and I have ever experienced. The cinematography is stunning; it takes place in Southwestern Kenya at the Massai Mara National Reserve. It is a beautifully awe-inspiring place that we never get to see. The photography was shot by on land, in the sky, and sometimes up close. The images are also in high quality in terms of high definition with great detail on the skin on muscle movements on these imposing creatures. The narrator for this film is Samuel L. Jackson. The material of his narration delivers smooth, mature, heavy power. But his narration is also dynamic to keep the audience engaged and it's a superb fit for the setting and culture of this kind of documentary. The magnificent score is composed by Nicholas Hooper and performed by the London chamber orchestra, and it is an effective support for the entire narrative. One of the major highlights of this movie is the movie's main song that is played during the end credits. It is a beautiful and light-hearted pop song by Jordan Sparks called "The world I knew." Now, I am not gonna say this documentary is a masterpiece; for age-appropriate content, it is not that accurate; it is a G-rated documentary that's iffy for kids under the age of seven. Although the movie is bloodless, the combination of the copious drama and ferocity, Samuel L Jackson's voice, and the fact that it is actually a real story makes this film a bit too much for a movie that is rated G, but on top of that, I was so distracted by all of the things that I loved here. In conclusion: "African Cats" is an engrossing and engaging documentary that will certainly fascinate families of any species. A hearty recommendation for the whole family (suitable for ages seven and up).
16 people found this review helpful
Michael Tohlen
Not nearly as light hearted as Monkey Kingdom, a lot more peril and "things that will make you sad". Be aware for the youngest of audiences.
17 people found this review helpful