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.

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.

Ddyracer2 Great movie by one of the best animal behaviorist out there. The story follows Letsatsi, a white Lion cub who is idolized by the Shangaan. The narration is not something that a ordinary documentary or movie would have. This film is sorta in between. John Kani who plays the Gisani is a good storyteller. However, he's the type of feller who is not really a narrator. But that's fine. IMO, it gives the movie a good feel. Sure, he ain't professional, like those impressive narrators with their deep voices but because the narration is different it makes it more flavorful. The scenery, is great, 100% on that. The story, like some other reviewer said is not on par. It felt a little long i admit. But often in films there is a sense of loss. Someone died, tragically which although is old, we love to see. Yes, point out that i'm am being a hypocrite. Different is good. But loss although like i said overused, probably would have helped the story. Especially at the end when Letsatsi is hunted by Man. Perfect for a Lioness ( there wasn't one but Letsatsi did have a pride at the end) to die or something like that. Or at least something tragic. Yes, I realize just now, that Letsatsi friend died, but it wasn't tragic or sad enough.Also there isn't really any showing of the Shangaan valley and their village/city would have gave me a better sense of "The Legend." That's about it. So i gave it 8/10 or 80% But i was feeling generous. Kevin Richardson who produced this could use some funds. I'm not a sponsor but check out The Lion Ranger. It shows Kevin interacting, playing, looking after his Lion Park in Gauteng Province, South Africa.

sandtonvideo WHITE LION 4.8/10 rated PG runtime 90 minutes A labor of love shot over the course of several years, this is, unfortunately, a noble failure. The movie is built around the incredible rapport that Kevin Richardson (the producer) has with animals, particularly lions. This makes for scenes and camera shots that would have been difficult if not impossible for others to do. The problem with the movie is that it is dreadfully slow and somewhat clichéd as well. Gorgeous scenery is offset by continuity problems with the featured lions, who change in appearance markedly between shots, and a stodgy, uninspired film score adds to the woes. John Kani, who is a revered actor in South Africa, narrates the story in a soporific style that underlines the dragging pace of the movie as a whole.When one thinks of Jean-Jacques Annaud's film The Bear, which is also a story of a young animal fighting for survival, one realizes just how far White Lion was from being the movie that this investment of time and effort deserved. If you do happen to watch this movie on DVD, though, make sure to check the special features: the sight of Kevin playing with his lion friends is just awe-inspiring, and the obvious affection that the lions have for him touching.