I have real difficulty watching this type of nature documentary. The other reviewer of this particular episode was mistaken: SPOILER: the Misfit does not die. It is a harrowing episode to watch. Heart-wrenching. And, yes, that's how I initially coped with all signs pointing toward the brutal demise of a heroic lion cub. Then, I started fast forwarding it...in little spurts trying to get through it. Finally, I googled "Misfit lion cub dies" only to find out he doesn't die (in fact, he's in a subsequent episode as a subadult. If there was ever a lion cub who deserved an Oscar, this little guy most certainly does. Obviously, how the heck the camera crew kept it together during the filming is beyond me. Once I was assured he was not going to die (I know, we're all going to die...but you know what I mean...he definitely deserved to live like no other....) I was able to watch the entire episode, calmly....although, I did hug my dog really hard...she, for obvious reasons was happy when the episode was over: "Mom, can I go to sleep now?" Oh-vey. Brilliant episode.
4 Reviews
The Misfit lion cub, a story worth to be told
majoar18 November 2022
This is one of the most engaging wildlife documentaries I have ever watched. The story of the Nsefu lion pride, and that of the Misfit lion cub, the little runt of his litter, and his struggle for survival in the harsh Zambian's Luangwa Valley. Full of drama, the storyline is confronting and harsh, but at the same time inspirational and emotional. I am glad I got to watch this documentary for its storyline, photography, and because it showcases little known lion families interaction. Although the storyline is challenging and confronting, it is beautifully written and told. The use of night light camera adds another dimension to our understanding of animal behaviour. This documentary was the runner up of a big wild cats award. It will not disappoint, but you will be left wanting, and asking the film makers for more.
The harsh realities of nature
buggsi30 December 2023
This episode illustrates the raw reality of nature, which is cruel and sad. But that's what "survival of the fittest" is all about. We follow the story of a little cub, the runt of the litter, who gets rejected by his mother, and who must face many dangers on his own. Despite his suffering, he remains determined to survive.
I commend the filmmakers for this excellent documentary, but on the other hand I was upset at them for doing it... I understand they didn't want to interfere with the animals, but the cub seemed like an object for their documentary, filmed coldly. I was hoping that a human would step in and help the cub, that's what conservationists do after all, don't they? I won't spoil the ending, so watch this documentary, it's a must.
I commend the filmmakers for this excellent documentary, but on the other hand I was upset at them for doing it... I understand they didn't want to interfere with the animals, but the cub seemed like an object for their documentary, filmed coldly. I was hoping that a human would step in and help the cub, that's what conservationists do after all, don't they? I won't spoil the ending, so watch this documentary, it's a must.
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