5 reasons to watch the new National Geographic film, The Last Lions
1. Dramatic storyline. The Lion King was a great animated film. Now, see the real-life story with just as much drama and excitement as the Disney version. In the new wildlife adventure, follow the epic journey of a lioness named Ma di Tau (“Mother of Lions”) as she battles to protect her cubs against a daunting onslaught of obstacles including a dangerous fire, a rival pride of lions, a crocodile-infested river, and a buffalo-ridden island–all in order to ensure the survival of her family.
2. Striking cinematography. The Last Lions features close-up footage of these majestic animals in their native Bostwana environment, captured by two of the world’s foremost filmmakers, big cat experts, and conservationists–National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Beverly and Dereck Joubert. Over their 28-year career, the Jouberts have won five Emmys, a Peabody, the World Ecology Award, and an induction into the American Academy of Achievement. They recently have been awarded the Presidential Order of Merit by the government of Botswana for their life’s work. So you know they are serious film professionals with a serious mission to document the stories of African animals.
3. Sonorous narration. The film is voiced by Jeremy Irons, the
British actor who has won an Oscar, two Emmies, and two Golden Globes
for his previous work. Let’s be honest, nature films are just better
with a British accent. Plus, Iron’s name kind of rhymes with “lions.”
4. Cool Cats: Did you know that lions are the only big cats that live in groups? Or that female lions do 90% of the hunting for a pride (group of lions)? Find out more facts about these cool big cats.
5. LAST Lions–Let’s hope not! In the 1800s, approximately 1.2 million lions roamed the Earth across Africa, the Middle East, and even the Indian Subcontinent. Today, lions number only 20,000. Learn about the plight of these rapidly disappearing animals and find out what you can do to help. This Lion Decline interactive map timeline is a great geographic tool to start exploring big cat populations around the world and over time.
Like the Last Lions on Facebook and leap on over to a theater near you to see the film this February! (showing mostly in independent cinemas)
Sarah Jane for My Wonderful World
Images courtesy Beverly and Dereck Joubert