Independent Lens Season 6 Episode 18 A Lion's Trail

Set in the early 1900s, A Lion's Trail is a poignant documentary that furthers Independent Lens' commitment to producing socially conscious and shrewd films. The episode follows the continental journeys of two men: Carl Akeley, the famed explorer, and Jomo Kenyatta, the first President of Kenya.

While the trails of these two men never intersected, the episode uses their stories to weave a narrative about colonialism and anti-colonialism. Akeley was a taxidermist, sculptor, and photographer, known for his expedition to Africa in 1909, which was the first of many trips to the continent. The episode hones in on his later mission to create the first natural history museum in Africa.

Jomo Kenyatta was an anthropologist, activist, and eventually the president of Kenya. Born in the late 1800s, Kenyatta spent much of his life under British colonial rule. A prominent figure in Kenya's independence movement, he became the country's first leader after it won freedom in 1963.

Through interviews with Akeley and Kenyatta's descendants, as well as historians and other experts, A Lion's Trail traces the impact of colonialism on the two men's lives, and on the continent as a whole. The episode illuminates how it could be that Akeley saw Africa as a place to be explored, studied, and preserved, while Kenyatta saw it as a place to be reclaimed and fought for.

The episode deftly explores the nuances of this history, without casting either Akeley or Kenyatta as completely right or wrong. Instead, it seeks to understand why they saw Africa so differently, and how their experiences and contexts informed their beliefs.

Beyond the exploration of colonialism, A Lion's Trail is also a remarkable piece of documentary filmmaking. Using archival footage and photographs, the episode transports viewers to a different time and place. From sweeping shots of the African savanna to closeups of intricate taxidermy, the cinematography is breathtaking.

Viewers are also treated to interviews with Akeley and Kenyatta's families, who provide a tender glimpse into the personalities and motivations of these two historical figures. Akeley's granddaughter, for example, shares family photos and stories that convey her grandfather's passion for art and nature.

Meanwhile, Kenyatta's son and daughter-in-law draw on their personal experiences to reflect on what it was like growing up under colonial rule and watching their father fight for independence. These interviews not only add to our understanding of the history at hand but also create an emotional connection between viewers and the people in the film.

Overall, A Lion's Trail is a must-watch for anyone interested in African history, colonialism, or anti-colonialism. The episode is a testament to Independent Lens' ability to produce films that are both thought-provoking and visually stunning. It invites viewers to grapple with complex issues and consider different perspectives, while also delighting them with rich storytelling and stunning imagery.