The Lion King (2019): Movie Review

It's another "live-action" (technically this is photo-realistic computer-animation) remake from Disney. This time it's one of their biggest hits with "The Lion King". The risk is extremely great. On one hand, people expect it to capture the original's magic and nostalgia but also expect it to be different. It's almost a no-win situation. And to no surprise, Disney plays it too safe and the end result pleases no one.

Simba, son of Mufasa, has been born and the Pride Land has found its next king. All inhabitants celebrate except for Scar, the brother of Mufasa, and the one who was next in line to the throne until Simba's arrival. Soon, Scar plots the murder of his brother and nephew to get the power and the throne he believes should be his. 

On visuals alone, "The Lion King" is an instant winner. It's surreal seeing realistic looking creatures come to life. It's both jarring and amazing at the same time. Beyond the animals, the background, setting, and vistas are even more amazing. It's literally watching a National Geographic feature. But this is also the same reason why "The Lion King" loses some of its luster compared to the original. The realism becomes a disconnect. Unlike the other live-action adaptations from Disney, the fantasy aspect is shattered. Another issue we have is that the film feels like a carbon copy of the original. Not much effort was put into making this into a different beast. There's a new song but it was so quick and non-integral that it was unnoticeable for some. Apparently there were a lot of changes made but in all honesty, we never felt those changes at all. "The Lion King" will still entertain just because the original was simply that good. But there are a lot of other ways to enjoy "The Lion King" like watching the original film or watching the musical play. But, unfortunately, this big screen remake is probably the worst way you can choose to do it.

Rating: 3 reels




Why you should watch it:
- amazing visuals are undeniable

Why you shouldn't watch it:
- this felt like a soulless remake
- a complete copy of the original with a lot less of the magic and awe