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Lion (2016) - Biographical Film
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Lion (2016)

description Lion (2016) Overview

Lion is a 2016 biographical drama directed by Garth Davis, adapted from the memoir of Saroo Brierley. The film depicts the true story of Saroo, a young Indian boy who becomes lost on a train and ends up thousands of miles away in Calcutta, eventually being adopted by an Australian couple. Twenty-five years later, a grown Saroo, played by Dev Patel, uses Google Earth to trace his origins and locate the family he lost. The narrative explores themes of adoption, displacement, and cultural identity, and it was nominated for six Academy Awards.

help Lion (2016) FAQ

How does Saroo find his birth family in Lion?

As an adult, Saroo uses Google Earth to examine railway lines and towns within a plausible travel radius of Kolkata. He eventually recognizes landmarks around his childhood home in Khandwa.

Is Lion based on Saroo Brierley's own book?

Yes. The film adapts Brierley's memoir A Long Way Home, which recounts his separation from his Indian family and adoption by Sue and John Brierley in Tasmania.

Who plays Saroo as a child and as an adult?

Sunny Pawar plays the young Saroo during the train journey and his time in Kolkata. Dev Patel portrays the adult Saroo living in Australia and searching for his birthplace.

Why is the film called Lion when the main character is named Saroo?

Near the end, Saroo learns that his birth name was Sheru. The name means "lion," which gives the title its personal significance.

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