Duma (2005)

Duma: Film club review

By Jack Collard

Duma is an incredible film about Duma (a cute leopard cub) who grows up with his carer, Xan. Duma gets rescued by two men, Xan and his Dad, who adopt him when rescuing him from the side of a road. As he and Xan grow up, their bond tightens and they share many adventures together, dangerous or not.

There are many things to like about this film, whether it`s the African charm of the film, it`s fantastic storyline or the spectacular bond between Xan and Duma. I particerlly loved the film`s African music, which fitted in perfectly with the African location it was filmed in. I found it uplifting and enjoyable to listen to. I also enjoyed the films astonishing cinematic photography. It was warming to see some beautiful sunsets and amazing mountains. Possibly my favourite thing about the film. Also, I liked the special bond between Xan and Duma. It was great to see the love they shared with each other and the things they had in common.

If there were 2 things I would change about the film it would definitely include the low volume of the actors’ voice sometimes. I found it hard to understand what they were saying sometimes, so they could have raised the volume a bit. The other thing I would include would be some silly scenes in the middle of the film were Xan pretends to kill himself by damaging his neck. I thought this was just plain silly and there was no need for it.

I would recommend this film as a PG for children over 6 years old, the reason being as there are moderate scary moments and sequences.