Yes, you may have seen the animated Lion King when it opened in 1994 or seen it on Broadway but put those memories aside. From the opening scene when you hear the iconic first words from the Circle of Life “Nants ingonyama bagithi Baba” you will find that you are going to be in for a special treat of a movie.
Disney’s “The Lion King,” directed by Jon Favreau, journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother—and former heir to the throne—has plans of his own.
Chiwetal Ejiofor as Scar
The battle for Pride Rock is ravaged with betrayal, tragedy, and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from a curious pair of newfound friends, Simba will have to figure out how to grow up and take back what is rightfully his. The story stays true to the classic original story and that is okay. I feel that moviegoers will love the new versions of the songs from the original as well. One thing that I think everyone will be talking about is how funny Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and Billy Eichner as Timon are. In fact, they pretty much are the standouts from the movie and I am sure your kids (and adults) will love them. They are truly hilarious and I was happy when they showed up!
THE LION KING – Featuring the voices of JD McCrary as Young Simba, Billy Eichner as Timon and Seth Rogen as Pumbaa
Favreau utilizes pioneering filmmaking techniques to bring the iconic characters to the big screen in a whole new way and it shows. The movie is stunning and is without a doubt feels that every animal, tree and plan looks like it was filmed in Africa. And I totally think that even if you are a fan of the animated movie, this version enhances the storyline for a new generation.
Behind the Scenes Footage from The Lion King
The Lion King website // Facebook // Twitter / Instagram
Circle of Life Trailer Premiered at the Los Angeles Premiere
The Lion King Roars into theaters July 19, 2019 and I highly recommend seeing the new version!
Disclosure: NYC Single Mom attended a screening of #TheLionKing to facilitate this review. Opinions are 100% my own.
