AFRICA'S ELEPHANT KINGDOM

SYNOPSIS:
Large groups of elephants move purposefully across the plains. One comes closer. He is massive, his weathered, craggy hide testament to the almost sixty years he has spent on earth. He is the Old Bull, our storyteller, and it is through his eyes that the film unfolds. He tells us of the layers of connection within elephant society. Babies to mothers, mothers to families, families to clans. Heading up each family is the Matriarch - the Keeper of Memory, who protects the family when threatened. The matriarch of his family is his cousin, Torn Ear, a wise and cunning female who is fifty seven years old. She watches over forty elephants but has the most trouble with her grandson - Little Bull. Together with his cousin Keekay, he’s constantly in and out of harmless mischief. This is a journey across vast stretches of land in search of food and water - a story of survival.

"We are immersed in Africa’s unique landscape, where with incredulity and wonder, we experience the magic of the Elephant Kingdom. The power of the world’s biggest and strongest of beasts on the world’s largest screen is overwhelming, as unforgettable images of elephants in their natural habitat are magnified. Filmed over a six months period, the journey we share with these gentle giants is one that traces a family travelling through drought, rain, experiencing the wonders of birth, devastations of death and the rituals of mating. Imagine the entire screen detailing the elephant’s unique skin, the imposing foot stamping in the dust, the soulful eye blinking slowly in the rich amber sunset. The rich baritone narration of Avery Brooks’ from the point of view of the elephant is effective, while stirring, evocative music combines ethereal, classical and rhythmic African elements. The cinematography is extraordinary as we witness an elephant charging directly towards the camera, baby elephants tumbling, playing, and most memorable of all, watch in amazement as two elephants lock tusks and engage in an unhurried, loving kiss. This spectacular film is a story of nature and survival in the beauty of Kenya and the plains below the White Mountain of Kilimanjaro. Staggering and inspiring, Africa’s Elephant Kingdom is an unforgettable journey to a land like no other, where sunsets are unsurpassed, and the magnificence of the amazing elephant can be enjoyed."
Louise Keller