King Of Beasts

"King of Beasts" is a bold and provocative documentary film from the year 2018 that navigates the deep, immersive world of lion hunting. Directed by Tomer Almagor and Nadav Harel, the movie utilizes an observational style to tell a complex story without passing overt judgment.

The central figure in "King of Beasts" is Aaron Neilson, a long-time, American trophy hunter from Colorado, who embarks on an exciting, yet controversial journey to hunt the ultimate game: an African lion. The film follows Aaron on his 14-day hunting safari to the wild landscapes of Tanzania, where he hunts the magnificent African lions for trophies. The movie does a commendable job of documenting and displaying the thrill of the hunt, the allure and primal desire behind hunting these majestic creatures, and the implications it has on our world.

"King of Beasts" digs into a different perspective of Aaron’s process and goes deep into his psyche, making him more than just a cardboard villain. The filmmakers visibly try to provide a balanced view by presenting Aaron's side of the story in his own words. This angle is significant in trying to understand why some individuals partake in this age-old tradition despite the global condemnation it often draws.

Aaron Neilson is not merely a hunter but also a business owner, who guides other hunters from across the world in their pursuit of exotic trophies. As a person, he is passionate about Africa, its rich wildlife, and strongly believes that hunting is essential for the conservation of these animals. However, it becomes increasingly clear that his opinions and actions stand on shaky ethical ground, given the diminishing lion populations.

The documentary does an excellent job of showcasing the juxtaposition inherent in this controversial practice and the devastatingly beautiful African wild. "King of Beasts" offers a stunning cinematic portrait of the African landscapes and its wildlife. The film's observational style helps the audience to perceive the genuine charm and harsh realities of the African wilderness. At the same time, it keeps them engrossed in the emotional, ethical, and political orchestra revolving around the life and actions of the central figure.

Throughout the narrative, "King of Beasts" delves deeper into the ethical, environmental, and economic implications of trophy hunting, making it a hot pot of debate. It does not shy away from showing the high-stakes gamble that trophy hunting plays in the survival of the African lion and the moral questions it raises about entertainment, sport, and human domination over nature. It turns the spotlight towards the wealthy Western trophy hunters who pay to kill endangered animals while highlighting the local poverty that benefits from such hunting expeditions.

"King of Beasts" is deliberately rich and complex, making it more than a simple story of a hunter and his prey. It strives to give a balanced and neutral observation, permitting the audience to reflect on the issues surrounding lion hunting. The lack of any external commentary throughout the film allows for an introspective approach, letting the viewers make their own decisions about the moral implications of Aaron's story.

In the duration of the film, audiences are privy to not just the hunting procedure, but also the preparations leading up to it and the aftermath. The dichotomous portrayal of the hunters versus the hunted is vivid, engaging the audience emotionally and intellectually. The film effectively spotlights the heart of this controversy: the question of whether the desire to hunt and take trophies are remnants of our primal nature or an unnecessary, cruel disruption to the natural balance of the wilderness.

"King of Beasts" is a thought-provoking, visually powerful film that facilitates an open space for debates by trying to present the story from all angles. It's a captivating exploration into the complex world of trophy hunting, showcasing the incredible beauty of Tanzania's wild against the morally controversial practice of lion hunting. The film indeed is an astounding blend of emotions, ethics, and emotions, carefully woven together in a way that leaves the audience with a lingering impact even after the end credits roll.