South Africa . The film is celebrated for its authenticity, having been shot over a three-year period to allow the young actors to grow up and bond with the real lions featured in the story . Key Content & Themes

: The production avoided CGI, relying instead on genuine interactions between actress Daniah De Villiers and the lions, overseen by expert Kevin Richardson .

: Loyalty, courage, animal welfare, and the importance of standing up for your beliefs even against authority figures . Mia and the White Lion Movie Review | Common Sense Media

: After discovering that her father plans to sell Charlie to trophy hunters, Mia embarks on a dangerous journey across the savanna to find a safe sanctuary for her friend .