The Lion King
A movie that will define modern day cinema for the coming years. - 8.75/10
by Francesco Bakhos - 365 Movies Lebanon
A movie that will define modern day cinema for the coming years.
This live-action remake directed by Jon Favreau (previously known for directing the blockbuster Ironman) follows the exact same story as in the original. A little Lion cub by the name of Simba, after the murder of his father Muphasa, flees his kingdom only to learn years later, the true meaning of responsibility and Bravery.
When you say Disney, your mind automatically goes to The Lion King, as, over the years, it has become one of the most successful and admired movies of all time. So when it was announced that a Live action remake was in the making, alot of people had some concerns, mainly about how it was ever going to live it to the original's hype and glory. Well set a sure you doubters out there, this new "The Lion King" will literally BLOW YOUR FREAKING SENSES OUT OF PROPORTIONS.
For you guys to have a better understanding about my review, I will be dividing it into numerous parts.
Starting with the story, well it "PRACTICALLY" didn't add anything new to the already known and beloved story and that's not totally bad, because you can expect the outcome (in this case, its not a bad scenario). But my only concern with the story, and the movie in general, is that it kinda, somehow, lacked this immensely level of magic and depth the original was so famous for.
Don't get me wrong, it was pretty emotional and im positive everyone in the audience shed a tear every once and a while but something felt off. Like just one tiny ingredient was missing. If it were included, the movie would've absolutely surpassed the original.
In other words, it had just enough depth and magic to keep it running. I would've loved if it was amplified.
To continue with the story, it was the perfect combination between Humor, Drama and thriller. One second, you're laughing LITERALLY like a maniac and the second one, you'll be crying like there's no tomorrow. This diversity between tonalities was really well executed and it paid off.
The movie, as a Disney movie, contained alot of inspiring and motivating life messages, either about believing in oneself, or about following traditions or creating new ones for that matter. Messages about change, about abuse of power, about compassion... And so on. I mean the movie, was overflowing with these kind of messages that each and every spectator can and will relate to.
Moreover, there was the outstanding soundtracks created by the master himself Hans Zimmer. The soundtracks alone created a fantastical atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of the Savanah and the wildlife. In addition, Beyonce's new single Spirit was so fitting and inspiring (im smelling an Oscar).
In addition, Muphasa, Simba, Nala, Pumba and the rest of the Savanah were energetically voiced by some fabulous A-list stars such as Beyonce, Donald Glovet and Seth Rogen.
I also have to, and must, talk about the cinematography. Man it was good. Each frame, each capture and each scene was oozing with perfection. Each told a story of its own, a story of magic and wilderness. Totally impressed. Praises to you dear Caleb Deschanel.
There's also the CGI, I mean a movie made entirely out of CGI yet felt completely real and convincing is simply mind blowing. Im absolutely mind-boggled. I cant start to describe the beauty and the delicate detail that was put in this remake.
All in all, The Lion King is a completely immersive cinematic experience like no other.
LONG LIVE THE KING!
LONG LIVE SIMBA!!
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