Film Review: The Lion King Goes “Planet Earth” On Viewers
The “live-action” version of The Lion King is absolutely stunning, and will leave you flabbergasted, even teary-eyed, with its visual beauty. Personally, and similarly to Dumbo, it is hard not to walk away from this film without an appreciation for the earth and animals. That being said, its transition from a colorful, animated 1994 film to a “Planet Earth- esque” form of animation transforms the story in the ways one might expect.
Directed by Jon Favreau, The Lion King has undeniable heart. The story, at its core, is moving, and I found myself still crying at the same parts. #RIPMufasa Yet, in becoming “live-action” this children’s film felt older. It was the same story, same characters, but the new, revamped effects added a beauty that strangely lessened the child-like nature of the original. Is this a bad thing? Well, it depends on the viewer. Lion King has its “fun,” particularly, with Billy Eichner’s Timon, Seth Rogen’s Pumba, Eric Andre’s Azizi, and Keegan-Michael Key’s Kamari. These characters are hilarious in their riffing of lines, and, together, earn every laugh in the film. Yet, the laughs don’t feel enough to over-power the “adult” vibe of the movie.
Pumbaa and Timon meet Simba Scene – THE LION KING (2019)
Again, in seeming “Planet Earthy,” The Lion King appeals/ appears like a gorgeous capturing of how beautiful the world is and filled with so many creatures. There were several times, throughout the picture, where I asked, “What animal is that?” It almost felt like a nature documentary, of which I was learning about all the animals in the jungle and their feeding habits/ pack behaviors. In essence, the vibe made this “children’s story” feel weighted and serious, which is why it didn’t always feel “child” enough. Moreover, it turns the mass appeal of this classic, Disney tale into one of selectivity.
EVERYONE LOVES 1994’S THE LION KING, but not everyone will appreciate or see the live-action version as their “cup of tea.” With all irony, the same thing that differentiates and beautifies it from the original, is what will leave people divided. There will be those that are not only protective of the original, but feel it more playful and innocent. Yet, there is no denying that Donald Glover plays Simba with a fresh blend of naivety and nobility. Meanwhile, Beyoncé’s Nala and Alfre Woodard’s Sarabi are elevated in feministic presence and power; being two core and constant thorns in Scar’s side.
Circle of Life Scene – THE LION KING (2019)
It is nice to know that 25 years after the original, I still loathe Scar. Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Scar with vitriol; making him sound haggard by his own malice. Meanwhile, James Earl Jones’ will always be Mufasa. Similarly, the music of The Lion King feels like a staple to the film’s beloved essence. While I know the Beyhive and the Gambinos will blindingly adore the soundtrack, for others, it might have the same “taste” issue as the film. Once again, it is gorgeous in orchestration, but not, necessarily, child-like. The Lion King Comes Out In Theaters On July 19.
The Lion King Official Trailer
