Quick reviews!!

Rating: 8/10 (21 March 2005)

Not only is it one of Disney's most loved films, it is one of the most successful movies of all time. A deceptively simple story, loosely built around Hamelet, with a rich cast of characters, a terrific list of voice actors, some extraordinary visuals and animation, and a few good songs make Lion King a favourite for many people, young and old.
The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a young cub and heir to the throne. His father Mufassa tells him from Pride Rock that someday all that simba sees will be his, as he will be the 'King of the Jungle', at the top of the food chain. More than this though, adding the human element, Simba will be the leader of all the other animals and they will look to him for guidance. However Scar, Simba's uncle believes the throne should be his, that it would have been his had Simba not been born. Scar, as he is not the alpha male must live in inferior surroundings, and against the typical rules of society he befriends the Hyenas. He plots to usurp the throne. One normal day he takes Simba across the land and into a canyon, knowing that a stampede approaches. When he leaves, Mufassa rushes to help his son and is crushed. Simba survives however, but Scar tells him to leave as everyone will blame him for his father's death. Simba goes, Scar takes over, telling everyone Simba is dead. Soon Simba meets Timon and Pumba, mere-cat and Warthog, and they become friends, following the Hakuna Matata way of life. However, when an old friend Nala appears, Simba realises he must take back his throne and stop Scar, leading to a fiery confrontation.
Each character here has depth and their own individuality. The voice acting for each is perfect, from the sneering intellectualism and jealousy of Jeremy Irons as Scar, to the wisdom and strength of Mufassa, played by James Earl Jones. The animation mixes computer styles with traditional, and the result is spectacular. From the sumptuous swirling views of the land, to the grimness of Scar's habitat, much akin to Shere-Khan's in The Jungle Book, everything is highly detailed. The songs range from the typical catchy dance numbers to ballads, and they are effective. The incidental music is often more powerful. The jokes are good for the most part, with many aimed at a more knowing, older audience, and while some scenes may be too harsh for younger viewers, it is still a perfect film for kids. There is love, friendship, respect and all the other traits of Disney, as well as the darker side too, which the kids will not recognise. A break from the fairy tale style of Disney films, and not a human in sight, but a major triumph for the studio, and a great, emotional, fun film.
8.5 out of 10