The Pridelands of Disney Feature Animation

Rating: 9/10 (17 August 2004)

If Walt Disney himself had ever attempted an animated Hamlet, he wouldn't have gotten any better than The Lion King. Disney Feature Animation richly crafts a morality tale that doesn't seem preachy, yet tells us of how we are all connected in a greater "Circle of Life." A tour-de-force vocal cast includes the amazing voice of James Earl Jones, the ever so human voice of Matthew Broderick, the vicious, sarcastic and calculated voice of Jeremy Irons, and the humourous antics of Nathan Lane. A fantastic collaboration of superstar songwriter Elton John and veteran lyricist Tim Rice produces some great Disney tunes. With very likable heroes and villians, attention to mood and detail, and alive without missing a tribal beat of native Africa, The Lion King stands proudly and roars, loudly.

Enjoyed by both adult and child, alike, it clearly defines what was once great in animation. It is truly a masterpiece of filmmaking as well.