Lion (2016) Review: A Heartfelt Journey of Love and Identity

Simon (0:00)

Without further ado, let's get to our review of Lion from 2016

Lion, directed by Garth Davis, is a poignant drama that captures the incredible true story of Saru Briheli, a young boy from India who becomes separated from his family and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and reunion. The film, based on Briheli's memoir, A Long Way Home, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and family. The story begins in 1986, when five-year-old Saru, played by the remarkable Sunny Pawar, lives in a small village in India with his mother, brother Guddu, played by Abhishek Bharate and sister. Saru's life takes a dramatic turn when he accidentally boards a decommissioned train that takes him over 1,000 miles away to Calcutta. Lost and unable to communicate his origins, Saru faces the harsh realities of life as a street child until he is placed in an orphanage. His fortunes change when he is adopted by the Briley family in Tasmania, portrayed by Nicole Kidman and David Wenham, who provide him with a loving home. As Saru grows into adulthood, played by Dev Patel, he is haunted by memories of his lost family. The film beautifully captures his internal struggle as he grapples with guilt and a longing to reconnect with his roots. Patel delivers a nuanced performance, showcasing Saru's emotional turmoil and determination to find his birth family using Google Earth. His journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, as he navigates the complexities of identity and belonging. The film's first half, focusing on young Saru's experiences, is particularly compelling. Davis masterfully portrays the child's fear and confusion, immersing the audience in Saru's perspective. Sunny Pawar's performance is a standout, capturing the innocence and resilience of a child thrust into an overwhelming world. The cinematography by Greg Fraser enhances the narrative with visually striking scenes that evoke both the beauty and chaos of Saru's journey. While the film's latter half depicting Saru's adult life lacks the same intensity, it remains engaging due to Patel's strong portrayal and the emotional depth of the story. Nicole Kidman shines as Sue Briley, delivering a heartfelt performance that underscores the unconditional love of an adoptive mother. Her scenes with Patel are particularly moving, highlighting the complexities of familial bonds.

Despite some minor flaws, such as the underutilisation of Rooney Mara's character as Saru's girlfriend, Lion succeeds in delivering a powerful narrative that resonates with universal themes of loss, identity and redemption. The film's emotional impact is undeniable, leaving audiences with a profound appreciation for the journey of self-discovery and the enduring connections that define us.

In summary, Lion is a beautifully crafted film that tells an extraordinary true story with sensitivity and grace. It is a testament to the power of love and the unyielding human spirit, making it a must watch for anyone seeking a deeply moving cinematic experience. And that concludes my review of Lion, and I'm giving it 4 stars out of a possible 5

Thanks for listening. If you liked what you've heard, please like, subscribe, and I hope to see you all next time.