gilligan1965 There was once a time when people gathered around to listen to the stories of their patriarch, or, in some cases, their Shaman, or, in this case, their elder, old Gisani.This is the kind of 'family' movie that can be enjoyed by everyone who loves animals, especially children. It has a good story; lots of wild animals; beautiful scenery and landscapes; some intrigue; some excitement; and, a storyteller who walks the audience through it all.A bit of trivia - I didn't realize it at first, but, 'Old Gisani' is portrayed by John Kani, 'Sergeant Jessie Link' in "The Wild Geese," which also starred Richard Harris who portrays George Adamson in "To Walk With Lions;" and, George Adamson, himself, is in "Christian the Lion;" "An Elephant Called Slowly;" and, "The Lion Cub From Harrods." Although filmed in different African nations, it's a beautiful 'Africa' connection with movies about lions, and, other wonderful animals of that continent!I have a love of Africa which is why I watch so many of these sorts of movies, and, I can't get enough of them.I gave this movie 'eight stars' as it's not a great movie, but, I believe it to be a very good one if you like this sort of thing.

grahak777 This is a sweet movie aimed towards a younger audience but can be enjoyed by adults.It follows the exploits of a white lion cub as it grows up to be a king of the jungle. Initially rejected by his pride because of his skin color (notice the hidden anti racism message) he soon moves location and befriends another big cat who is later shot by a hunter. Tragedy seems to follow him as his brother dies also early on. The interesting extras on the DVD show how it was made using heaps of lion cubs. Apparently white cub lions are quite common. Children will love some of the footage and enjoy the exploits and message behind the movie. If you get a chance sit down and give it a watch.

Chrysanthepop 'Can't seem to be getting enough of these lion movies. Just a couple of months ago I had watched the delightful 'African Cats' and tonight, saw 'White Lion'. Shot beautifully through South Africa, it's quite apparent how much effort the film took. Kevin Richardson really wanted to make this film even though the odds were against it. His love for lions is obvious and his determination to get 'White Lion' made has paid off. On the flip side, the direction is flawed. There are some continuity problems. The narration is occasionally interrupted when the film returns to the present day sequences of the storyteller and the children. The score is quite generic and the acting by the supporting cast, especially the 'prize' hunter is awful. In spite of this, thanks to Janet Van Eeden and Ivan Milborrow's writing that the story, even though a bit predictable and sometimes resorting to clichés, has heart and it holds your attention as you follow young Letsatsi through his journey. The lions who play Letsatsi (there are more than a dozen) do a great job. Moreover, the visuals of the raw African landscape are simply breathtaking. There are some visuals that have been amazingly shot. One wonders how the cameraman achieved these images as they're very difficult to obtain but he did it. All in all, I enjoyed 'White Lion' and wouldn't mind seeing it again.

blanknamedstuff For the most part I enjoyed this movie very much. It is worth watching for the scenery alone (the visuals are easily worth 9/10). There are several areas where the retouched colors and CGI sky is blatantly obvious but it adds a larger-than-life feel to the savanna.The story, unfortunately, is a mismatching of a folk tale and a Nat Geo documentary. The voice over technique works well enough but the narrator abruptly stops to interact with his audience. This causes the story to jerk between scenes. At the end of 90 minutes I felt like I had been watching for several hours... and not in a good way. Still, it is a tale of courage, strength, and loyalty, and the intended audience (kids) should enjoy it.Note for parents: as I mentioned, "White Lion" plays a bit like a documentary; there is some raw footage in this film including lions' eating habits and territorial disputes. The themes of death and loss are also touched a few times, albeit briefly. You will want to watch this movie with your little ones so you can explain things to them. (Kids 12+ should have no trouble with it.) I will watch it with my 10-yr-old nieces to reinforce their studies, but the 4-yr-old will have to stick with Dora the Explorer for now.