Serviceable fare for the giant IMAX screen, but nothing groundbreaking, “Lions 3D” follows an aging “king” lion and his two lionesses as they try to survive in the Kalahari, a desert region in southern Africa that spans a huge portion of Botswana, which supported the film’s production (as did National Geographic).
Many beautiful images, especially aerial shots after the rains, and physically rattling sound — a would-be usurper and the “king” bellowing challenges and, even more impressive, the low-frequency rumble from elephants arriving at the local water hole (they dislike lions) — probably are worth the price of admission for some ($11, $10 for seniors, $9 for children).
Filmmaker Tim Liversedge sticks to the basics, so anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of lions won’t learn much. But his footage demonstrating their grace and power on the hunt, and the almost puppy-like trot of cute little cubs venturing out with mom, is inviting.
Another lesson learned: Don’t be the last gazelle with your head down for a drink.
Running time: 0:40. Opens Friday at Navy Pier IMAX Theatre, 700 E. Grand Ave.; 312-595-4629, imax.com/chicago.
No MPAA rating (some natural predatory and territorial violence).
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