The Lion King is arguably one of Disney's most monumental movies since it entered the modern age of animation in the 90s. A film so praised that even new generations of animated movies or stories get inspired.
The Lion King's blockbuster success garnered it as one of the highest-grossing movies ever until Finding Nemo dethroned it.
But what was it all about?
Plot Summary
The Lion King is set in the deserts of Africa, where a pride of lions rules over the kingdom from Pride Rock, a monumental stone formation that acts as a throne. King Mufasa and Queen Sarabi present their newborn son, Simba, to the other animals with Rafiki, the shaman.
After Simba grows into a cub, Mufasa shows him the kingdom they rule and the duty of governing and being a leader to other animals. He teaches him about the "circle of life," which connects all living things. Simba and his friend, Nala, venture into the elephant graveyard and get chased by three spotted hyenas. After being rescued, Mufasa gets angry at Simba for putting Nala's life in danger but tells him that the great kings who ruled watch over them from the sky. Meanwhile, Scar, Mufasa's younger brother, concocts a plan with the hyenas to kill Mufasa and Simba.
Scar sets a trap to lure Simba in between a stampede of wildebeest. Mufasa saves Simba but gets trapped hanging from the gorge's edge. He tries to seek Scar's help, but he pushes him down and kills him. Scar tricks Simba into thinking it was his fault his father died and fled. Scar assumes the role of king over the Pride lands while Simba tries to discover himself with his new friends, Timon and Pumba.
This movie features the incredible voice talents of Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, etc.
Review
The Lion King, throughout its almost 90-minute runtime, delivers a story for the ages. It deals with familiar themes like family, betrayal, love, etc., common in Disney films.
The plot of this film is very relatable. The characters' personalities, traits, circumstances, and decisions are close to what we experience today. Plus, the movie has a well-balanced formula of drama and humor, making it enjoyable for all ages.
The voice actors did a marvelous job portraying their roles, but a big hat off to Sir Jeremy Irons for making Scar one of the most terrifying villains of all time.
What's more incredible about this film is the undying legacy it represents throughout history. The Lion King has already broken through video games, live-action, spin-off series, etc. It makes you appreciate it more the more you think about it.
A true classic.
4.5 out of 5 stars.
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