The Lion's Den
The Lion's Den

Movie spotlight

The Lion's Den

2017
Movie
71 min
English

A group of Staten Island radicals lead by ex-philosophy student Marie and her boozy filmmaker boyfriend Nick attempt to kidnap the CEO of the Leo Corporation but instead accidentally capture Daniel, a nutty small time accountant. With Daniel in custody at their commune, several of the radicals attempt to 'revolutionize the bedroom', an endeavor further complicated by a surprise visit from Marie's tough boy ex-lover Junior.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Director: Dustin MilliganGenres: Drama, Short

Plot Summary

A young girl, Lou, who is a talented ballet dancer, struggles with the isolation and strict discipline of a prestigious ballet academy. She faces intense pressure to succeed while navigating complex relationships with her peers and instructors. The film explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the often-unseen emotional toll of pursuing artistic excellence at a young age.

Critical Reception

The Lion's Den, though a short film, garnered attention for its sensitive portrayal of the pressures faced by young aspiring artists. Critics praised its emotional depth and the strong performances, particularly from its young lead. It was recognized for its atmospheric direction and its unflinching look at the sacrifices required in competitive fields.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its emotional resonance and strong performances.

  • Noted for its realistic depiction of the competitive world of elite ballet training.

  • Appreciated for its thoughtful exploration of ambition and sacrifice.

Google audience: As a short film, "The Lion's Den" has limited widespread audience reviews. However, where available, viewers often commented on the film's ability to evoke empathy for its characters and its visually compelling presentation of the ballet world. The intense atmosphere and the challenges faced by the protagonist were frequently highlighted.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Narrative Short Film at the Tribeca Film Festival (2017).

Fun Fact

Director Dustin Milligan, known for his acting roles, made his directorial debut with 'The Lion's Den' at the Tribeca Film Festival.

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