Lion 3.0.3

Lion is a thought-provoking drama film directed by Thorsten Schleinzer. The 2016 Austrian movie explores the abduction of a young boy named Leon (played by Julian E. Lindinger) and the aftermath of the tragedy.

The story is told mainly from the perspective of the perpetrator, 42-year-old Pedophile Michael (played by Austrian actor, Johannes Krisch). The film is centred around Michael and his insidious plan to kidnap Leon, whom he keeps locked up in a basement dungeon in a suburban house. Throughout the film, Schleinzer uses light and shade to set the mood for each scene, with long takes that emphasize the oppressive atmosphere of Leon's captivity.

While on the surface Lion seems to be a typical kidnap drama, it delves deep into themes of power, control, and victimization. Schleinzer doesn't rely on cheap thrills or excessive violence to shock his audience; instead, he pushes viewers to confront their own preconceived notions about pedophilia and child abduction. This character-driven movie asks important questions about the nature of evil and human morality.

The film's cast is rounded out by Ursula Strauss, who plays Anna, Leon's mother, and Andrea Wenzl, who plays Michael's accomplice. Lion is a challenging but important watch for anyone looking for a thought-provoking glimpse into the darkest corners of human nature.