Born Free
Director: James Hill, Tom McGowan
Actors: Virginia McKenna, Bill Travers, Geoffrey Keen
PlotIn the vast landscapes of Kenya, a game warden and his wife lead a life intertwined with nature, dedicating themselves to the preservation of wildlife. Their existence takes a significant turn when they adopt three orphaned lion cubs after their mother is killed. As the cubs grow, the couple faces the challenging reality of nurturing these wild animals in their home. While two of the lions are sent to a zoo, one cub, Elsa, forms a unique and deep bond with the couple, especially the wife. Despite the obvious dangers and unpredictability associated with wild animals, they commit to raising her with the intention of one day reintroducing her into the wild, a decision that reflects their profound respect for nature and their belief in the possibility of coexistence between humans and wild animals.
The task proves to be both heartwarming and fraught with difficulties, as the advantages and limitations of human interaction with wild animals become apparent. The couple navigates the complexities of teaching Elsa how to survive on her own, a process that challenges their understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the instinctual behaviors of lions. This journey illuminates the delicate balance required to bridge the worlds of humans and wildlife, emphasizing themes of love, freedom, and the innate wildness that defines nature itself. Their experiences offer a poignant exploration of the deep bonds that can form between humans and animals, and the profound responsibilities that come with such relationships.
Writers: Joy Adamson, Lester Cole
Release Date: 22 Jun 1966
Runtime: 95 min
Rating: PG
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English, Swahili
Home Video Reviews
Sony's 4K makeover of this uplifting film dazzles; now a must-watch on Blu-ray. Kudos to Eureka!
Read our review of Born Free Blu-ray to find out more