• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Meet Ashley
  • Contact
  • Latest Instagram Posts
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Giveaways

With Ashley And Company

Lifestyle, Travel, and Geek Blog

  • Home
  • Entertainment
    • Marvel
    • Star Wars
    • Movies
  • Travel
  • Disney
  • Family
  • Recipes

The Lion King Movie Review | Is It Worthy Of The Original?

July 11, 2019 By Ashley 17 Comments

Before I share my Lion King movie review I need to tell you this- The Lion King is my movie. Ever since I was a child, The Lion King has been my favorite Disney film. I wore out my VHS copy, I own it on every platform and in every version it was ever released. I have all the music, toys, mugs, Pop Figures, you name it, I have it. Original Elephant Graveyard playset and Burger King cups? Yep. 

Lion King Movie Review

I’m telling you that to tell you my expectations for this movie were high, the highest I have ever had for a film and yes that includes Avengers Endgame. In fact, I knew going in there would be no way it could live up to what I wanted. Because truth be told, I wanted the original: nothing changed, nothing added, just give me the original with real lions and call it a day. That was never going to happen and I knew that. So what did this 90s Disney kid, mega Lion King fan think of the remake? 

Lion King Movie Review

The Lion King Movie Review | Is It Worthy Of The Original?

Yes and no. Hear me out.

As far as staying true to the heart of the original and calling back all those memories, yes it is worthy of the original. Watching specific scenes like The Circle of Life and Hakuna Matata I felt just like a kid again seeing The Lion King in theaters for the first time. The emotional moments got me and the overall score just permeated my soul. 

My very first thought was, wow. If they don’t win all the awards for the visuals I’ll be shocked. At times it was as if I was sitting watching a National Geographic documentary or riding along on a safari trip. The Lion King is visually stunning and like it’s predecessor, ground breaking. If you thought The Jungle Book was mind blowing, just wait until you see this. 

Aladdin Easter Eggs, The Lion King

Young Simba and Nala were great. Not that that is surprising considering their voice actors, JD McCrary and Shahadi Wright Joseph, portrayed them in the Broadway version. You could tell the two had a ride or die, best friends for life relationship. Not to mention how cute they are. I would go to war to protect these two. 

James Earl Jones. That’s it, that’s the sentence. He is Mufasa and he’s amazing, nothing else needs to be said. 

Lion King Movie Review

Timon and Pumbaa were scene stealers, shocker right? While keeping some of the same jokes as the original, Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner brought their own flare and I laughed the whole time. To be clear, this casting was one of the ones I was unsure about, but I was proven wrong. The distraction scene does not include a hula, sorry to disappoint, however I think you will be happy with the adjustment. It’s clever. 

Nala’s role is bigger in this film and Beyonce brings it. When she tells Simba she is disappointed in him, you feel it. I enjoyed her portrayal of Nala and the addition of lines for the character. Nala was always a strong presence, but wasn’t given much to work with in terms of lines/screen time. The remake gives Nala her due without it feeling forced or disjointed.

Lion King Movie Review

Some of the songs and choreographed arrangements don’t work as well as the original but that was the idea- more realistic. So no, Simba is not jumping across giraffes in crazy colors, Zazu doesn’t get sat on by a rhino, and no one dresses in drag to do the hula. Despite all that, the numbers were fun and you will find yourself singing along. 

Along those lines it’s hard for a real lion to emote. Their expressions aren’t as big, the movements are not, well as animated. I think though knowing the original material you can still feel what their feeling, because you know what they are feeling. In our mind, little Simba is crying hard even if he’s not sobbing on screen. 

Lion King Movie Review

Now for the no. 

I would again like to remind you dear readers that my bar was set unattainably high. You may indeed have a different opinion or experience, especially depending on your attachment to the original. I felt like I needed to share where it let me down, so that if you’re like me you could manage your expectations accordingly. 

Scar. From the casting announcement to the trailer debut with his voice and look, I have not been a fan. Black mane lions exist in the wild, although they are rare, so the lack thereof threw me off. I was able to get past that but Chiwetel Ejiofor, the voice of Scar, left me feeling underwhelmed. 

Jeremy Irons’ voice is iconic, and not something you can easily duplicate. Idris Elba would be the only actor I’ve heard that could come close but he was already the villain Shere Khan. Throughout the film Chiwetel had his moments where he sounded more “Scar-like”, but in the Be Prepared number he came off shrill. Scar is anything but and should only lose his cool at the very end when cornered by the hyenas. On the flip side some friends of mine truly enjoyed his performance while agreeing with me on the next point. So while reviews are helpful, you really have to see it for yourself!

Lion King Movie Review

The bigger let down was Simba. Musically, Donald Glover was great. Hakuna Matata, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, loved those. But his speaking performance felt flat, which surprised me. I’ve genuinely enjoyed him in everything I’ve seen but this just didn’t work.

Maybe another viewing will change my mind. I’ll know what to expect and my bar can come down. We are seeing it again with the kids when it hits theaters and I’m sure they will love it. 

 

Is The Lion King kid-friendly?

The Lion King, for the most part, is kid-friendly. I have some cautions for younger children, as cartoon violence and real life violence are vastly different.  

Lion King Movie Review

Violence in The Lion King

The Lion King might be a little intense for viewers under 8. The original film had several scary moments which are amplified when seeing real animals in peril. Similar to The Jungle Book, the chase scenes in the Elephant Graveyard and the Stampede, as well as the Fight for Pride Rock might be too scary for younger children.

The good thing about remakes- if you know the original you know when these scenes are coming and can cover eyes, hold hands, and reassure accordingly. I still cry like a baby when Mufasa dies, in fact I typically fast forward that part of the DVD, but I couldn’t do it in the screening. If this part gets to your kids as well, a trip to the bathroom or maybe a big hug will help alleviate some of their feelings.

Lion King Movie Review

In the original film, when we saw the carnivores eating there was an absence of blood. I remember the hyenas pulling off a strip of zebra meat and it looked like a fruit leather, nothing gory. In the new Lion King, Scar is seen eating an antelope while he discusses Sarabi’s lack of loyalty. You do not see the animal’s head or chunks of its’ body missing, but Scar does have blood around his maw.

It’s also worth noting that when Scar faces the Hyenas again at the end of the film, this time as their enemy, younger children might be scared for how sinister their eyes look as they creep towards him. Again, it parallels the original scene but live action turns the intensity up several notches.  

Lion King Movie Review

Language in The Lion King

Praise, there are no bad words in this movie. Pumbaa does say the word fart instead of being stopped by Timon like in the original Hakuna Matata. But who doesn’t love a good fart joke? Pumbaa is also heard farting twice, which I’m only telling you so that you’re prepared for some human copycats on the drive home from the theater. They also left out the “why do I always have to save your ahhhhhh” from the original, so not even a hint of a bad word in the whole film.

Lion King Movie Review

Final Thoughts: Is The Lion King worth seeing in theaters?

100% yes, The Lion King is worth seeing in theaters. In fact, I would recommend it on the biggest screen possible to truly see how beautiful it really is. But didn’t you say your expectations weren’t met? I did, but like I mentioned, I knew they wouldn’t be.

However, it was true Disney magic to hear those songs again while watching the gorgeous scenes play across the screen. I laughed at the antics of Timon and Pumbaa, sang along with the music, and yes cried. The tears flowed on and off throughout the film. I mostly knew when I would cry, however it surprised me when the tears came as I watched the opening sequence. My heart was just so full. 

Lion King Movie Review

The Lion King reminded me of why I love the original so much, why it will forever be my favorite Disney film. Is The Lion King worthy of the original? That answer might depend on you and your emotional attachment to the animated film. But I promise you, young or old, skeptic or fan, it will solidify why The Lion King will forever be the greatest Disney film. 

The Lion King is in theaters July 18, 2019

The Lion King

Hakuna Matata! Get all the latest Lion King news on Facebook | Twitter #TheLionKing | Website | Instagram

About Ashley Saunders

Ashley is a former teacher turned mom of one girl and one boy. She describes herself as almost crunchy which means she lives a healthy, natural life all while driving her SUV.
More about Ashley →

Filed Under: Disney Movie, Entertainment Tagged With: Disney, Disney movies, Lion King Movie Review, movie reviews, movies, The Lion King, The Lion King 2019, The Lion King Movie Review

Previous Post: « Maleficent Mistress Of Evil Full Trailer Arrives
Next Post: Monopoly: LOL Surprise Edition »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jeanette

    July 11, 2019 at 12:20 pm

    My kiddo is SO excited to see this movie! I am glad that you gave a really honest post. I LOVED the original and I am a little iffy on the new one! I think I would love it after your review!

    Reply
  2. Glamamom

    July 11, 2019 at 12:21 pm

    I would expect mixed reviews depending on the perspective and appreciate yours! DYING to see it with my boys to form our own 🙂

    Reply
  3. Melissa Chapman

    July 11, 2019 at 1:57 pm

    Such a thoughtful review and this is one movie I will not miss. I always could watch the cartoon so I am so curious to see the live version.

    Reply
  4. Liz Mays

    July 11, 2019 at 3:32 pm

    This movie looks beautiful and I always look forward to these remakes for the music alone. I’m glad the movie has so many positives!

    Reply
  5. Amber Myers

    July 11, 2019 at 3:54 pm

    I plan on taking my kids to see it. They are excited. They love the cartoon—as do I–so we know this one is going to be incredible.

    Reply
  6. Tasheena

    July 11, 2019 at 5:43 pm

    Thank you for sharing your input. I can’t wait to see this movie with my family.

    Reply
  7. Shoshana Sue

    July 12, 2019 at 3:42 am

    I haven’t wholly read your post because I am yet to see the movie and don’t want to spoil it. But I am glad to hear that the remake is worthy of the 90s original. Can’t wait to watch it

    Reply
  8. Tammy

    July 12, 2019 at 11:13 am

    Thanks for the great review. I haven’t seen the first one and will probably watch it first. I’m really not into remakes 99% of the time. I a movie purist.

    Reply
  9. Ash

    July 12, 2019 at 12:06 pm

    I think I’m more excited than my son to see this LOL. Loved the animated version and I’m hoping the live action version is just as memorable!

    Reply
  10. MELANIE EDJOURIAN

    July 12, 2019 at 12:24 pm

    I love how you are totally honest about the voices for the characters. I think it’s hard when they do remakes of these things to please everyone. I know my children would to go see it.

    Reply
  11. Ruth I

    July 12, 2019 at 10:23 pm

    I think this is worthwhile, there is no question to that. The story and the overall remake is just amazing. Donald Glover made it even more exciting.

    Reply
  12. Swathi

    July 13, 2019 at 2:43 am

    Lion king looks like really nice movie, My son is really fan of lion king. My son is excited to watch this movie.

    Reply
  13. Lia Mae

    July 13, 2019 at 2:51 am

    Good review, i look forward to the new Lion King. Live action is just the coolest thing ever, looks so realistic.

    Reply
  14. Louisa

    July 13, 2019 at 5:49 am

    Thanks for your honest opinion about your thoughts on the remake of Lion King. I have not seen it yet and now I wonder if it’s worth it!

    Reply
  15. Heather

    July 13, 2019 at 8:07 am

    Great open and honest review. I still really do want to see it so it’s on my list!

    Reply
  16. rika

    July 14, 2019 at 10:22 pm

    Thanks for sharing a great review! Now, I know that I have to watch this movie!

    Reply
  17. Terri Steffes

    July 22, 2019 at 10:35 am

    I appreciate your candid review! We cannot wait to see this!

    Reply

Leave a Reply to Liz Mays Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badgeShow more posts

Primary Sidebar

Meet Ashley

A Disney kid, Marvel & Star Wars geek, bookworm, who is always caffeinated and ready to travel. Follow along with our family's adventures and always dream big!

Read More →

Reader Favorites

  • How To Watch Every Star Wars Movie Before The Rise of Skywalker How To Watch Every Star Wars Movie Before The Rise of Skywalker
  • How To Watch Every Marvel Movie Before Endgame How To Watch Every Marvel Movie Before Endgame
  • All The Frozen 2 Easter Eggs You May Have Missed

Footer

Instagram post 2197488581001647829_2474857 Til the Spire ✨ . . Counting down to #theriseofskywalker and our next trip to Batuu ✨ . . Have you ridden Smuggler’s Run yet?  I’ve been the pilot and the engineer! ✨ . . #smugglersrun #milleniumfalconsmugglersrun #batuu #galaxysedgedisneyworld #galaxysedge #starwarsland #starwarsgalaxysedge #blackspireoutpost #tilthespire #milleniumfalcon #disneyaccount #disneylifestyle #disneyshollywoodstudios #hollywoodstudios30 #starwarsgirl
Instagram post 2196817843559764758_2474857 Lots of travel and Disney. Yep sounds about right. 🎉 . . #topnine2019 #topnine #disneyaccount #2019memories #bestnine2019 #disneyaccounts #disneyanimators #markhenn #charlestonsouthcarolina #kiawahisland #animalkingdompark #imaginationpavilion #epcotcenter #ralphbreakstheinternet #huskiesofig #visitcharleston
Instagram post 2195313197657179427_2474857 2020 is almost here! The beginning of a decade seems like a big thing to celebrate. #AD 🎉 . . Grab your girlfriends and say goodbye to that same old New Years Eve routine. This year host a New Years brunch! 🎉 . . Looking to host the best New Year’s brunch on the block? Lucky for us all my party planning BFF @orientaltrading has everything we need. Swipe through to see more pics and head to my site to see the full party! 🥂 . . Plus today and tomorrow get FREE shipping plus save $10 off $59, $15 off $79 and $20 off $99 with code SQUAD19: http://goto.orientaltrading.com/d0YP2 🎉 . . #OTCCheerSquad #OTCChristmas #orientaltrading #newyearsbrunch #newyears2020 #newyearsparty #newyearseveparty #partyprepping #nyeparty #nye2019 #2020goals #nyeparty2019
Instagram post 2193135793422163424_2474857 Everyone watch out for Ginger. Ginger snaps. Yep, she is one tough cookie. 🎄 . . Who else loves The Jingle Cruise and all the puns?? What joke is your favorite? 🎄 . . Watching the @disneyplus The Imagineering Story gave me new appreciation for this one. 🎄 . . #jinglecruise #junglecruise #disneyplus #disneyimagineering #dvcmember #DailyDisney  #Disneygrammer #DisneyParks #InstaDisney #DisneyAddict #DisneyDay #IGers_WDW #DisneyLove #Disneynerd #disneyobsessed #disneyaccount #disneylifestylers #disneyholidays #holidaysatdisney
Instagram post 2190999018670489705_2474857 Feeling Holly and Jolly over here as we get ready for the holidays! We had a chance to stop by and visit Santa last week and now it is your turn! #AD 🎄 . . Santa HQ is the perfect way to kick-off your holiday season. It’s not just about meeting the big man himself but having special moments with your family along the way. HGTV incorporates special mobile apps, social-media-ready opportunities, and augmented reality for an immersive, interactive holiday experience. 🎄 . . Spend less time in line, purchase a Fast Pass today: ‪http://bit.ly/2Q8Nu2T‬ 🎄 . . And see our visit by clicking on the link in my bio! 🎄 . . #SantaHQ #hgtv #visitingsanta #saycheese #holidaytraditions #santaclausiscomingtotown #merryandbright #merrychristmas2019 #happyholidays2019 #christmastimeishere #christmastime🎄 #lovethesetwo #momoftwokids #christmasphotoshoot
Instagram post 2187911734395976912_2474857 The holidays are looking dapper with the Blackwood Collection from @OriginalGrain. AD . . My husband is getting the Blackwood Chrono 44mm this year. This handcrafted watch is made with all-natural African Blackwood and stainless steel. . . When you get an Original Grain watch you can know that not only will the timepiece be unique unique but that for each watch sold, Original Grain plants one tree. I love companies that are working to better our world, don't you? . . Shop now using this special link http://bit.ly/2DnO5GA and code "ASHLEY20" to receive up to 40% off + a FREE bracelet for Black Friday. No two watches are the same, just wait until you see all the options for both men and women. Here's to a stylish season. . . #stayoriginal #originalgrainambassador #originalgrain #watchgram #watchaddiction #instawatches #watchgame #watchesofig #wristcheck #watchenthusiast #watchlove #watchlovers #watchgame #watchesofinstagram #watchcommunity
Instagram post 2185900492010250061_2474857 Raise your hand if you have ever attempted a home renovation project. Now, keep your hand up if things did not go as planned. Throw kids into the mix, and you know all about the mayhem we went through when redoing our kitchen. (AD) 🛠 . . As intense as home stuff can be, at least the whole family can laugh about it when it is over. And laugh you will, when you pick up the latest from Jeff Kinney, author of the @diaryofawimpykid series. 🛠 . . Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball is out now and trust us, the kids are going to love it! You will want to read along with them, especially if you’ve had your own misadventures in home improvement like Greg’s parents. 🛠 . . Learn more about Wrecking Ball and get tips on how to get the kids involved with your next home improvement project. Link in bio. 🛠 . .  #WimpyKid14 #WimpyKid #WimpyWreckingBall #childrensbookstagram #kidsliterature #bookstoread #middlegradebooks #kidslit #kidsbookshelf #booknerdigan #diaryofawimpykidwreckingball
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Ambassador

Hershey Sweetest Families 2019

Everywhere Society Member
promotional codes
Find Your Influence
SoFab Badge
The Network Niche

My Favorites

Downton Abbey Giveaway
Mulan Trailer
First Look at Free Guy
New Years Brunch
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane
Spirit Riding Free Spirit of Christmas

Copyright © 2019 · With Ashley And Company