Darker, more serious, but still very emotional

Rating: 9/10 (16 August 2019)

I get emotional from this the same way I feel bad for leaving my cat or dog at home when going somewhere. Just because they don't raise their eyebrows doesn't mean they don't feel anything, and if you're not willing to actively read emotions into their eyes yourself, then I guess it's not for you. But like I mentioned, it wasn't a problem for me, and it came naturally.
This remake also made the movie better in many ways. The humour, although subjective, was better and more suited for me now that I'm 25 years older. I also enjoyed the way Scar interacts with the hyenas in the remake. We now have a scene where he approaches them, convincing them to join him, instead of already being their "leader". This adds depth to both the story and his character.
For the Beyonce critique I can't really relate because I've barely listened anything to her, and wouldn't really recognise her voice if I wasn't told beforehand it was her, so I can't really say she's stealing the show either. Maybe it's an advantage that comes from being from Norwegian opposed to American.
When I got home I had to watch the original Lion King straight away. And even though the script is basically the same, they're two very different films. While the original one is mostly light-hearted, this is dark and very serious. Which I think also justifies toning down Scar a bit in the remake. During Be Prepared in the remake I drew parallels to Hitler, which was absolutely terrifying, and makes Scar an even greater villain, and it also makes the final battle incredibly powerful.
I really don't understand the criticising bandwagon. I get it's a touchy topic as the film has meant so much for so many (me included - my first memory from going to the cinema was with my dad to the Lion King. He passed away a few years ago, my Mufasa is gone too), but it definitely delivered.