DisneyNature’s new release, African Cats, opened in theaters nationwide on Earth Day. We caught a sneak peek and here’s what we think: it’s a beautiful story, narrated by Samuel L. Jackson and illustrated with lush photography. Although the story is targeted toward kids, because of the spectacular photography and incredible soundtrack, it has great appeal for adults, too.

African Cats is a parable about families, and mothers in particular, featuring cheetahs and lions – their love, relationships and daily struggles to survive in their home, the wilds of Africa’s savanna. This touching tale at one particularly dramatic point may bring tears to your eyes. You could hear a few sniffles in the audience. But in true Disney style, immediately following that scene, the music and visuals lift you up and carry you to a happier place.

There are many lessons for children to glean from the action. It was refreshing to view a family film based on nature, featuring actual footage of animals shot in their natural habitat rather than another Pixar animated opus starring talking monkeys and singing marsupials.

DisneyNature launched in 2008, releasing Earth on Earth Day in 2009; and Oceans in 2010, which became the third highest grossing feature-length nature film in history.

If you catch it this week (April 22-28,2011) – DisneyNature will make a donation to The African Wildlife Foundation to help save the Savanna through a special program, “See AFRICAN CATS, Save the Savanna.” Details of “See AFRICAN CATS, Save the Savanna” can be found on The African Wildlife Foundation’s website.

Take a peek at the trailer via Quicktime. Better yet, go see it.

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