Performer Review: Rocco DeLuca and the Burden

ROUNDUP REVIEW: LIONS 3D: ROAR OF THE KALAHARI

Serviceable fare for the giant IMAX screen, but nothing groundbreaking, "Lions 3D" follows an aging "king" lion and his two lionesses as they try to survive in the inhospitable Kalahari, a desert region in southern Africa that spans a huge portion of the Republic of Botswana, which supported the film's production (as did National Geographic).

Many beautiful images, especially aerial shots after the rains, and physically rattling sound - a would-be usurper and the "king" bellowing challenges and counter-challenges and, even more impressive, the low-frequency rumble from elephants arriving at the local water hole (they dislike lions) - probably are worth the price of admission for some ($11, $10 for seniors, $9 for children).

Filmmaker Tim Liversedge sticks to the basics, so anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of lions won't learn much. But his footage demonstrating their grace and power on the hunt, and the almost puppy-like trot of cute little cubs venturing out with mom, is inviting.

Another lesson learned: Don't be the last gazelle with your head down for a drink.

- Michael Esposito

No MPAA rating (some natural predatory and territorial violence). Running time: 0:40. Opens Friday at Navy Pier IMAX Theatre, 700 E. Grand Ave.; 312-595-4629, imax.com/chicago.