Cheetah

Cheetah is a heartwarming adventure film, released in 1989, showcasing the heartwarming bond between a young boy and a cheetah in the picturesque setting of Kenya.

The film follows the journey of young American boy, Ted, who travels to Kenya with his parents on a research mission. When the family reaches Kenya, Ted quickly becomes enamored with the country and its natural beauty.

While roaming the arid grasslands of Kenya and visiting a nearby game-tourist reserve, Ted encounters a young orphaned cheetah cub, which he immediately takes under his wing. Ted immediately feels a strong connection to the small feline, despite its wild nature.

As Ted and his new animal companion begin to spend more and more time together, they form an inseparable bond and become the least expected friends in the Kenyan wilderness. However, not all of Ted's encounters are quite so friendly, as he finds himself in the middle of a dangerous poaching ring, threatening not only his new friend but also the larger community of animals around them.

Amid the constant threats facing them, Ted must come up with a plan to save the cheetah and the other animals from the poachers' onslaughts. With the help of his newfound friends, including a local Maasai boy named Morogo, and the ever-elusive cheetah guiding his every step, Ted sets out on an epic journey to take down the poaching gangs.

Overall, Cheetah is an excellent family-friendly movie that will appeal to viewers of all ages. The film blends stunning visuals of the awe-inspiring African savannahs and touching storytelling to create a nostalgic and heartwarming film about the unlikeliest of friendships.

The talent of Keith Coogan as the lead boy, Ted Johnson, is noteworthy, as he injects tremendous vibrancy, charm, and playfulness to his character. He manifests a deep understanding of the role and the motivation behind the character's actions, resulting in a captivating and relatable lead. Lucy Deakins also delivers an excellent performance as Ted's friend Susan, who plays an integral role in the film.

The cinematography of Cheetah sets a high standard in the industry, with many breathtaking shots of Kenyan landscapes and wildlife, including cheetahs, elephants, and zebras. The magnificent vistas of the Kenyan wilderness transition smoothly with the action sequences, creating a visually striking experience.

Another standout element of the movie is the original music score by Alan Silvestri, who is famous for his scoring of other hit films such as Back to the Future trilogy and The Avengers. Silvestri's score for Cheetah is melodic and soul-enriching, effectively conveying the emotions of the scenes and enhancing the cinematic experience.

The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and bravery in the face of danger, making it an excellent teaching resource for children. The on-screen portrayal of the Maasai, their culture, and their beliefs offers an insight into the Kenyan society and is a useful educational tool for understanding other cultures.

In summary, Cheetah is a must-watch if you are looking for a family-friendly classic film that brings out the essence of the beauty of the Kenyan wilderness and wildlife. It is a heartwarming tale of friendship that will leave a lasting impression on viewers long after the credits roll.