Lion feels like two separate films; we liked the first but not the second! (Audio)

Rating: 6/10 (21 February 2017)

Our Hollywood critics, Les Roberts and Ann Elder, decided that Lion feels jarringly like a two part film. They absolutely adored the performances of the young Saroo and his brother. However, they felt that the grown Saroo (played by Dev Patel) should have moved them to tears. This true story, based on Saroo's search for his family was definitely sentimental, but it simply missed the mark. The flashbacks were sweet, but they were interjected somewhat jarringly at times.
Lion feels like two separate films; we liked the first but not the second! Overall, Ann and Les gave it a "yellow" light, meaning this movie is definitely worth watching, but approach it with caution. The direction is amiss, as are some of the performances. However, the cinematography and performance of the young Saroo are breathtaking.
Ann and Les discuss more aspects of the film in podcast form here: https://www.thefrontporchpeople.com/greenlightreviews/lion