I still find it funny that Disney tried to make Pocahontas the greatest animated movie ever and The Lion King was just a side project, but in the end the exact opposite happened.
I can’t even imagine what the world would be like if The Lion King never existed. There’s a huge reason as to why this movie is so memorable. Long before I got into film criticism, and even on my very first watch of the movie when I was just barely a year old or so, I always knew that there was something very special about it. It was always my favorite movie of all time. The music, the score, the characters, the story, the animation, the emotional impact, the dialogue, the comedy, the whatever. The Lion King is a masterpiece. Also, you did point out the fact that they don’t need to be animals. The thing is: that is true, but also not true. Think about it. If they were just humans, it might leave the same impact, but it wouldn’t leave the biggest impact that much. Making them animals makes the movie a lot more interesting. There’s a reason why all the characters are animals. Those are my thoughts on The Lion King, and I hope everyone has the same thoughts too. I feel like I haven’t said everything, but I’m sure everyone knows what I’m trying to say. Again, The Lion King is a masterpiece.
Same. For me, the remake is just a 5/10 at the very least. It has a few good things I like, such as the hyenas being more intimidating and Timon & Pumbaa in general, but it's still not even close to being as great as the original masterpiece.
I remember watching this movie so much, the VHS tape we had got so worn down it almost snapped... I can probably recite EVERY line from this film and sing every song word for word. If you grew up in the 1990s and had a VCR, I would very surprised if you didn't have a copy of The Lion King on your entertainment unit shelves... It is THE definitive 90s kids movie. Nuff said
When I was kid, my day would never be complete without watching this movie and sometimes back to back. This shows how impactful and nostalgic 'The Lion King' is to alot of people. And no matter if the 'remake' makes over a billion dollars worldwide, the original will always be the rightful king. As for the next film: Aw, hell! XD
Frank Welker provided all the lion roars. Not a single recording of an actual lion roaring was used because the producers wanted specific sounding roars for each lion. A few weeks before the film opened, Sir Elton John was given a special screening. Noticing that the film's love song had been left out, he successfully lobbied Jeffrey Katzenberg to have the song put back in. Later, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" won him an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The team working on the film was supposedly Disney's "team B," who were "kept busy" while "team A" worked on Pocahontas (1995), on which the production had much higher hopes. As it turned out, "The Lion King" became a huge critical and commercial success, whereas "Pocahontas" met with mixed reviews and a much lower box office. The best-selling home video of all time, with more than 55 million copies sold to date. The wildebeest stampede took Disney's CG department approximately three years to animate. A new computer program had to be written for the CG wildebeest stampede that allowed hundreds of computer generated animals to run but without colliding into each other. In early drafts, Scar was a rogue lion with no relation to Mufasa. Eventually, however, the story writers thought relating him to Mufasa would be more interesting, a threat within. This is why Scar and Mufasa differ so much; they weren't originally designed to be related. (at around 1h 12 mins) The line, "What do you want me to do, dress in drag and do the hula?" was improvised by Nathan Lane. Unlike the other lions, Scar's claws are always displayed throughout the movie. (at around 29 mins) Jim Cummings (voice of Ed the Hyena in this film) had to fill in for Jeremy Irons for the finale of "Be Prepared." Irons threw out his voice after performing the line, "you won't get a sniff without me!" The rest of his recording didn't sound powerful enough. (at around 25 mins) In the end of the scene where Mufasa explains to Simba that the stars are old kings, we can see the constellation of Leo (the lion) in the sky. The animators were so impressed with Jeremy Irons's performance that they worked Irons' features into Scar's face. Adult Simba's mane was supposedly inspired by Jon Bon Jovi's hair. Rafiki is the only character to not have an American or English accent, and has an accent native to the film's setting in Africa (though he is voiced by an American actor, being Robert Guillaume) and sometimes speaks the African language Swahii. The plot is loosely based upon William Shakespeare's "Hamlet", as well as the biblical stories of Moses and Joseph. Dedicated to Frank Wells, the Disney president, who had been killed in a helicopter crash three months before release. The unnamed hyenas in the film did not have pupils in some scenes, causing them to look far more deranged and depraved. Scar was the very first character to speak in both the film and Lion King franchise right after Simba's presentation. "Simba," is Swahili for Lion This the only Disney film along with the remake in which two brothers die namely Mufusa and Scar. Iconically while Mufusa goes to heaven Scar ends up in Hell. The hyenas even have faces that resemble Satan before they kill Scar to further support this. Many fans have described Mufasa's death as one of the saddest and most traumatizing moments of any film in the Disney canon. In fact, the only moment that is considered the same is the death of Bambi (1942)'s mother. According to the makers, the scene was originally even more heart-breaking and intense, but when a test audience consisting of children saw a preview, they started to sob and cry uncontrollably, so it was decided to tone the scene down a bit. Originally Mufasa was to never appear after his death, but producers felt Simba needed a reason to go back to Pride Rock, so the spirit scene was made as a "to be or not to be" moment. (At around 1h 21 mins) If you look closely at Zazu as Simba comes down to greet his subjects after the defeat of Scar, you can see his beak move, but no sound comes out. Originally he says "Your Majesty Scar's death is perhaps one of the most graphic Disney deaths ever, even with the flames obscuring the screen, as the hyenas tear him apart with them burning alive as well. The song "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" has a sad irony to it. Simba sings it the day before Mufasa dies, making Simba the official king of the Pride Lands. During the early stages of production, the film's climax had a different ending. After their battle on top of Pride Rock, Scar is left hanging on the edge of a rock and asks Simba for mercy, saying that Simba is not like him, that he is not a murderer, and asks for his forgiveness. Simba pulls him up, but he's thrown over by Scar to the raging fire below and lands safely into a tree. Scar, believing Simba to be dead, starts laughing over his victory before he is burned alive by the fire. The sequence was story boarded, but it was not used, being considered too dark for a Disney film. Along with "Hamlet" Lion King is more than a little similar to Bambi (1942). Both begin and end with a "prince" birth, both loses a parent while very young, both flims have all animals characters (humans exist in Bambi but are never shown), in both there's a fight between the prince and rival and have a fire during and in Bambi's case after the battle. Finally both of the princes wound up with mates they knew as children. (at around 45 mins) In the song "Hakuna Matata", when Pumbaa is telling his story and how he thought of changing his name, the phrase Timon sings is a line from Juliet's balcony monologue from William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The exact quote is: "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet". Interestingly, the first sequel, The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998), is based on Romeo and Juliet.
The Lion King is #2 on my list of my favorite animated Disney Movies, second only to Pinocchio. I was born in 1994, so I was a one-year-old baby when this movie first premiered. I don't remember when I actually started watching this movie, but I do remember that I loved it very much. I especially loved the sequences from when Simba was still a child. Simba always looked cute, even when he got overconfident about becoming the new king. But even though it's his child cuteness that makes me like Simba, I cannot deny that I like his adult life as well. That's when Simba decides to go back to being royalty and take the Pride Lands back from Scar. That's when Simba develops his compassion for those who cannot defend themselves. I am also impressed that this was once the highest grossing animated movie in existence. That makes this feel like undeniable proof that hand-drawn animation is superior to computer animation in every single way. I should like to see another hand-drawn animated movie out-gross the Lion King to prove that point further, but don't let that deter you from seeing the Lion King as a landmark. By the way, yes, I did go see the stage play in New York City. And I did in fact have a good time at that stage play. I love The Lion King. I love everything about it, and I am proud to put this on my list of favorite animated Disney Movies.
This was the movie I grew up with. The center of my childhood, and the very reason I hold animation in high regards. It absolutely deserves it's final rating.
You know. I didn’t remember much watching this film when I was just a baby. All I remembered was the opening and the music. My baby mind wasn’t as well made as nowadays. It wasn’t until the 3D re-release in 2011 until I really got a better understanding of the film as it was practically my first full viewing of the film. And after that viewing, it would take it’s spot as one of my favorite animated movies of all time. The presentation is one of the best I’ve seen in any animated movie, every single characters is likable, believable, and entertaining, the music is unforgettable from the songs to Hans Zimmer’s score, and its powerful message about responsibility. It was one of the few animated features I’ve seen on the big screen during it’s run, not once, but twice. It’s one of the films that I’d say would deserve an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. Like, if they’re gonna nominate Up just for the opening alone, then they should’ve just given a nomination to this immediately as it has one of the best openings in any animated feature just like Up, on top of a grander scale and mature message. So, no surprises, this film is among my top 5 favorites animated movies of all time and I was really lucky to get my first full experience on the big screen in 3D. I almost wanna turn the clocks back to 2011 to see it again. 10/10
Maria Jimena Figueroa Are you kidding? Most of Disney’s live action remakes are pure and total junk. By the way, what excuse does the 2019 Lion king have to be called a live-action Film?
Hard to believe that this MASTERPIECE came out 25 years ago. Fun Facts: "Circle of Life" was released as a teaser trailer back in the early 90s. "Hakuna Matata" was also featured in Toy Story 1 as a Lion King reference.
When circle of life played at the beginning I grab a simba plushie and lift it just like rafiki Also congrats on your 100th classic review animat and for reviewing my favorite disney movie of all time thank you
I knew the lion king was going to get a 10/10! As for the Next review: Open season 2, Open season 3, or Open season: Scared silly.... I don’t care which one it is. All of them suck.... so next review isn’t going to be as spectacular as it was with reviewing one of the greatest animated films of all times... ah well
And yes, it deserved that 10/10. No wonder it hasn't aged at all since it came out 25 years ago, and is still regarded as a animated CLASSIC. Compared to the recent remake, which despite already making over a billion dollars at the box office, will be forgotten about very quickly.
Is this a bad time to mention that I actually own and watched the first three Open Season movies? I skipped out on Scared Silly, because the name alone feels like it's more suited to be a Halloween special. But, would it be sad if I enjoyed the original trilogy?
That 10/10 score reveal, with the actual film title card. Awesome. Now when you review The Incredibles anytime, give it The Lion King 1994 treatment, with the opening logo at the start and first bit of The Incredits when revealing the review score.
Luigi Marinus Gaming, no. the movie deserves a 10/10, because of the story, the music, the characters (especially the villain), the moral, the voice acting, and most important to me, the animals. there's no other movie like it, and there never will be. The Lion King is a Movie Marvel.
Nice review! This is absolutely my favorite Disney movie. It was the first film I ever saw in the theater and was a huge part of my childhood. I can't even express how much I love this one. The most iconic movie opening ever, fantastic songs, and amazing story, wonderful animation, and memorable characters. Perfect movie.
I don’t care if people call this an overrated movie, I watch it several times and it’s still a masterpiece as I remembered and you said it best what makes it such a wonderful experience. Even if it’s not everyone’s favorite, I will always treasure The Lion King in my heart.
Thank you, Lebo M and Carmen Twillie. Your singing is beautiful. The opening scene is a great example with its breathtaking scenery and colorful visuals to bring the world of Africa to life.
Congratulations on your 100th classic review, and I'm surprised you didn't make any Kimba the White Lion references, but still great review anyway. P.S., I'm still waiting for somebody on patreon to request a review for Stitch! The Movie (2003).
@@arbytv5139 Technically, he did 7 years ago on an update vlog where he expressed his opinion about the first film, I don't want him to re-review just yet, I want to see his reviews on the rest of the franchise before going back to the first film.
AniMat's Classic Reviews 2019 #1 The Lion King *9.8/10* #2 (Tied) Perfect Blue & Toy Story 2 *9.7/10* #4 Aladdin *9.3/10* #5 The Great Mouse Detective *9/10* #6 The Point *6.7/10* #7 The Transformers: The Movie *5.8/10* #8 Tentacolino *1.6/10*
This was the golden era of Disney. The Little Mermaid. Aladdin. Beauty and the Beast. And the Lion King. From 1989-1994 Disney created some of the best animated films of all time. Must've been quite the experience to grow up as a kid during that time.
It’s remarkable when looking back on this, when the studio thought Lion King was gonna be a huge failure and it just became the complete opposite. Man, those were times when Disney were taking chances with their animated films. Not anymore today at least with the pointless remakes. I want that back.
The Lion King is one of the best animated Disney films and best animated masterpieces next to Fantasia and Spirited Away. Since I do love the film in my childhood, this motivate me to love animation and become a great animation filmmaker and why animation should considered an art form and be appealed to all ages from kids to adults and even families. As for the 2019 live action remake, uh..........I have yet to see it. The Lion King became influenced and inspiration for my untitled wolf project about the kingdom of wolves in the forest fighting against humanity with strong theme of environmentalism. It's kinda like the Lion King but with wolves and to have wolves as good guys than cliche bad guys.
Also I would love to make my animated wolf project beautifully 2d hand drawn animation like the Lion King since I'm getting sick and tired of computer animated films nowadays.
For this film was always full of amazement, and forever timeless, especially for Disney. I think even the remake can see that. "Often imitated, never duplicated.
One of the many things I really appreciate about this movie now a days looking back is how exceptionally well. It was dubb’d into Swedish. fun fact the guy who voiced Scar almost looke like him too.
This is my all time favorite movie in the world!!!!! I give it a 10/10. As for the remake, I’ll give it a 9/10; even though the original will always be better, I still really loved it.
This is my Dad & Me movie. I remember he took me with him to work, he'd park his truck somewhere high. and we'd stare at the landscape and he'd teach me stuff about life. Often we'd talk about girls, his work, sports (you name it). We really bonded and to this day if I ever see the movie or something that reminds me of that movie. I get nostalgic and remember my old man. I'm so proud to be his son, nowadays we talk everyday and hopefully if I ever have kids, I'll show them this amazing masterpiece and tell them the stories I had with my dad
Amazing job on the review, Animat! I gotta say, this is probably one of your best reviews. And no, I'm not saying that as a "Lion King" fan (though it helps), but rather for how well you explained your thoughts on the film. You did an especially great job discussing the royalty theme in the story. Ooh... better be prepared for your next classic review. I'm sure it'll be all slime and no satisfaction.
Just a perfect movie Great story, amazing Animation recognizable characters that I grew up with and beautiful music It's a movie i could watch again and again
I just realized that with the exception of Tentacolino, Animat was on a pretty good streak with animated films in the classic reviews series this year...that is until we learn that (spoiler alert): the next classic review will be open season 2
Lion King: 11/10; not just my favorite Disney movie nor one of my favorite animated films, but one of my favorite movies of all time! Lion King 2019: 5/10
@@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003 If you like the remake, that's fine, but I can't for the life of me understand people when they say they prefer it more than the original. It's not the worst film I've ever seen and there are a few things I like about it, but at best, it's just a mediocre copy of this classic movie.
@@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003 I think the realism in the remake is both a pro and a con itself. Sure, it's amazing how they make the animals look like actual animals, but when those real animals are in a Lion King remake with stone-faced reactions, it takes away the emotional core of the story. The Mufasa ghost scene is the perfect example. In the original, the animation of a lion in the clouds look absolutely stunning and Simba's reaction to it is awe-inspiring. It's the reason why it's the most powerful scene in the whole movie. In the remake, it's just clouds in the sky with an occasional lightning strike, showing Mufasa's face while Simba doesn't even react at all. That scene is practically begging to go all out with the effects, but the film is busy getting so preoccupied on capturing realism, it sucks all the Disney magic away.
What you said with the movie "still having power no matter how many times you watch" is so true. I can't count how many times I've seen this movie, but I never tire of it. I still get emotional, and I still find myself dancing/singing to the songs. It's just such a perfect movie. Which is why I have no freaking idea why Disney felt the need to remake it, other than to make a few bucks. :/
I always love the lion king since I was little, and it will forever be in my heart forever, next to how to train Your Dragon franchise and Steven universe, thanks for reviewing for my favorite animated film, animat!!
To interpret the life cycle and royal lyniage in a inspiration way was a huge accomplishment by everyone involved. Another informative and entertaining review. Keep it up!
The greatest and the best movie the team at Disney has ever made. 😁🙌👍👏🍿🎬 The film's animation is so beautiful thanks to its brilliant hand-drawn techniques, its voice performances from the cast are awesome, its music is unforgettable and it told a very good story about honor and responsibility.
I always compared The Lion King to DreamWorks The Prince Of Egypt and Joseph King Of Dreams, they both have biblical feelings, It's really get 10/10 as The Best Disney Animated Movie of all time.
At last! The review of my favorite film of all time! I have loved this movie ever since I first watched it as a kid! It has everything an animated film should have: a great story, a great cast of characters, great animation, and great music. Now, Animat has only two more nineties Disney movies to tackle: Beauty and the Beast, and Tarzan.
Great Review Animat. I love The Lion King and I agree on the praises you gave to this movie. And also, throughout this year, you watch a lot of good movies the Patreon people gave to you (except for the Animated Titanic movie starting this year) they gave you really good movies like; Aladdin, Toy Story 2, The Great Mouse Detective, and a few more. But Sadly, your streak has ended with watching good movies, as it is time for you to watch an Open Season sequel!
Luigi Marinus Gaming - I can’t tell if you’re intentionally being stupid right now, but the hint at the end of this video made it extremely obvious that’s it’s NOT Toy Story.
I'm glad you're giving it a perfect score. Now, I'll admit, I'm surprised that it doesn't hit # 1 on Disney animated classics for my rankings, because I'm in my 30s now, and I was 9 when it was 1st in theaters, and to this day this is even still one of my favorite movies. Of course, there is that there are some other Disney animated movies that are around as high as this one, but this is in my top 5. There were just a few other movies that for me were up there with this one. But, this is definitely one of the best animated movies out there, and as a movie nerd this is still a movie I watch over and over again as an adult!
Lion King is still huge in the furry community. It just has that exact right balance of feral and anthro. Feral enough to be exciting and having to work around their anatomy. Yet still anthro enough that it's easy to work with and relate to the characters. Also the world building is just right. Showing enough detail that people get a firm grasp on the idea but leaving it vague enough that people can build on it with their own ideas. Comics of Lion King are still being made all the time and some are really good. One of my favorites is "dark times" which goes into Scar's reign of the pridelands. How he was a neglectful yet still manipulative king and how the pride is cracking apart and the land is falling to ruin. It really was the comic that made Sarabi one of my favorite characters as she is just so strong. The art is not super high quality but the writing more than makes up for it.
Rafiki is not a Baboon, he's a Mandrill, yes I know he calls himself a baboon, but that's because during the 90s not everyone had a great knowledge of animals, but they did a lot of research of animals to see what is the right names for them in the 2000s, by the way there is a article about the difference between a Baboon and Mandrill, in the article, Mandrills were thought to be baboons, but that was not the case, because Mandrill was considered a different genus and species as well, by the way there are pictures of Baboons and Mandrills to tell you difference of them.
John Contreras I think if he reviews the lion king 2 simba’s pride and the lion king 1 1/2 I bet these will be the scores The lion king 2 simba’s pride Story: 7/10 Animation: 8/10 Characters: 9/10 Songs: 7/10 Overall 7/10 The lion king 1 1/2 Story: 7/10 Animation: 9/10 Characters: 8/10 Songs: 8/10 Overall 8/10
My parents took me and my twin sister to see this when they re-released in IMAX when I was a kid. We weren't around when the movie originally came out (I was born a year later) and I guess they felt it was worth the hour and a half trip to see it on the big screen. They were 100% right. To see it on such a massive screen blew my 6 year old mind. And when I went to school the next day I was the envy of everyone (teachers included.) The only time I can say I was just as blown away was when I saw it on Broadway in NYC with my high school choir. I honestly wish they would still re-release the movies on the big screen. Every one deserves the opportunity to see a Disney movie on the big screen.
The Lion King is and still remains to this day one of my favorite Disney films, animated or not, and I’m glad and excited to see you do a review of it and hear your thoughts on this iconic Disney film. Thanks 🤩
I still find it funny that Disney tried to make Pocahontas the greatest animated movie ever and The Lion King was just a side project, but in the end the exact opposite happened.
I love how Disney unintentionally made a masterpiece
More than you’ll ever know.
first Lion King, and then Zootopia
Then they shat on it in 2019
@@alextheblueman-reviewergam9655 dont forget wreck it ralph
@@denises9120 no that movie was great
Story: 10/10
Animation: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Songs: 10/10
Overall: 10/10
Fuze 007 yep
Agreed!!
Songs, not music.
YES!👏🏻👏🏻
Although I agree with your point, we knew this was going to happen..
Ripped off: 7/10
I can’t even imagine what the world would be like if The Lion King never existed. There’s a huge reason as to why this movie is so memorable. Long before I got into film criticism, and even on my very first watch of the movie when I was just barely a year old or so, I always knew that there was something very special about it. It was always my favorite movie of all time. The music, the score, the characters, the story, the animation, the emotional impact, the dialogue, the comedy, the whatever. The Lion King is a masterpiece. Also, you did point out the fact that they don’t need to be animals. The thing is: that is true, but also not true. Think about it. If they were just humans, it might leave the same impact, but it wouldn’t leave the biggest impact that much. Making them animals makes the movie a lot more interesting. There’s a reason why all the characters are animals. Those are my thoughts on The Lion King, and I hope everyone has the same thoughts too. I feel like I haven’t said everything, but I’m sure everyone knows what I’m trying to say. Again, The Lion King is a masterpiece.
It’s a MASTAHPIECE. ‘Nuff said.
And I’d also watch it over the 2019 version any day of the week.
Definitely agreed.
It should have been on Netflix.
Same. For me, the remake is just a 5/10 at the very least. It has a few good things I like, such as the hyenas being more intimidating and Timon & Pumbaa in general, but it's still not even close to being as great as the original masterpiece.
Who wouldn't?
I’d watch the Original, Two,
1 & 1/2, Lion Guard, and all of the FanFics over the Live Action one!
I remember watching this movie so much, the VHS tape we had got so worn down it almost snapped... I can probably recite EVERY line from this film and sing every song word for word. If you grew up in the 1990s and had a VCR, I would very surprised if you didn't have a copy of The Lion King on your entertainment unit shelves... It is THE definitive 90s kids movie. Nuff said
When I was kid, my day would never be complete without watching this movie and sometimes back to back. This shows how impactful and nostalgic 'The Lion King' is to alot of people. And no matter if the 'remake' makes over a billion dollars worldwide, the original will always be the rightful king.
As for the next film: Aw, hell! XD
Frank Welker provided all the lion roars.
Not a single recording of an actual lion roaring was used because the producers wanted specific sounding roars for each lion.
A few weeks before the film opened, Sir Elton John was given a special screening. Noticing that the film's love song had been left out, he successfully lobbied Jeffrey Katzenberg to have the song put back in. Later, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" won him an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
The team working on the film was supposedly Disney's "team B," who were "kept busy" while "team A" worked on Pocahontas (1995), on which the production had much higher hopes. As it turned out, "The Lion King" became a huge critical and commercial success, whereas "Pocahontas" met with mixed reviews and a much lower box office.
The best-selling home video of all time, with more than 55 million copies sold to date.
The wildebeest stampede took Disney's CG department approximately three years to animate. A new computer program had to be written for the CG wildebeest stampede that allowed hundreds of computer generated animals to run but without colliding into each other.
In early drafts, Scar was a rogue lion with no relation to Mufasa. Eventually, however, the story writers thought relating him to Mufasa would be more interesting, a threat within. This is why Scar and Mufasa differ so much; they weren't originally designed to be related.
(at around 1h 12 mins) The line, "What do you want me to do, dress in drag and do the hula?" was improvised by Nathan Lane.
Unlike the other lions, Scar's claws are always displayed throughout the movie.
(at around 29 mins) Jim Cummings (voice of Ed the Hyena in this film) had to fill in for Jeremy Irons for the finale of "Be Prepared." Irons threw out his voice after performing the line, "you won't get a sniff without me!" The rest of his recording didn't sound powerful enough.
(at around 25 mins) In the end of the scene where Mufasa explains to Simba that the stars are old kings, we can see the constellation of Leo (the lion) in the sky.
The animators were so impressed with Jeremy Irons's performance that they worked Irons' features into Scar's face.
Adult Simba's mane was supposedly inspired by Jon Bon Jovi's hair.
Rafiki is the only character to not have an American or English accent, and has an accent native to the film's setting in Africa (though he is voiced by an American actor, being Robert Guillaume) and sometimes speaks the African language Swahii.
The plot is loosely based upon William Shakespeare's "Hamlet", as well as the biblical stories of Moses and Joseph.
Dedicated to Frank Wells, the Disney president, who had been killed in a helicopter crash three months before release.
The unnamed hyenas in the film did not have pupils in some scenes, causing them to look far more deranged and depraved.
Scar was the very first character to speak in both the film and Lion King franchise right after Simba's presentation.
"Simba," is Swahili for Lion
This the only Disney film along with the remake in which two brothers die namely Mufusa and Scar. Iconically while Mufusa goes to heaven Scar ends up in Hell. The hyenas even have faces that resemble Satan before they kill Scar to further support this.
Many fans have described Mufasa's death as one of the saddest and most traumatizing moments of any film in the Disney canon. In fact, the only moment that is considered the same is the death of Bambi (1942)'s mother. According to the makers, the scene was originally even more heart-breaking and intense, but when a test audience consisting of children saw a preview, they started to sob and cry uncontrollably, so it was decided to tone the scene down a bit.
Originally Mufasa was to never appear after his death, but producers felt Simba needed a reason to go back to Pride Rock, so the spirit scene was made as a "to be or not to be" moment.
(At around 1h 21 mins) If you look closely at Zazu as Simba comes down to greet his subjects after the defeat of Scar, you can see his beak move, but no sound comes out. Originally he says "Your Majesty
Scar's death is perhaps one of the most graphic Disney deaths ever, even with the flames obscuring the screen, as the hyenas tear him apart with them burning alive as well.
The song "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" has a sad irony to it. Simba sings it the day before Mufasa dies, making Simba the official king of the Pride Lands.
During the early stages of production, the film's climax had a different ending. After their battle on top of Pride Rock, Scar is left hanging on the edge of a rock and asks Simba for mercy, saying that Simba is not like him, that he is not a murderer, and asks for his forgiveness. Simba pulls him up, but he's thrown over by Scar to the raging fire below and lands safely into a tree. Scar, believing Simba to be dead, starts laughing over his victory before he is burned alive by the fire. The sequence was story boarded, but it was not used, being considered too dark for a Disney film.
Along with "Hamlet" Lion King is more than a little similar to Bambi (1942). Both begin and end with a "prince" birth, both loses a parent while very young, both flims have all animals characters (humans exist in Bambi but are never shown), in both there's a fight between the prince and rival and have a fire during and in Bambi's case after the battle. Finally both of the princes wound up with mates they knew as children.
(at around 45 mins) In the song "Hakuna Matata", when Pumbaa is telling his story and how he thought of changing his name, the phrase Timon sings is a line from Juliet's balcony monologue from William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The exact quote is: "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet". Interestingly, the first sequel, The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998), is based on Romeo and Juliet.
This movie will always be a classic. Pick this, over the recent remake.
They can pick whatever they want. But yes, this film will always be a classic. One of Disney's best.
This isn't a classic; it's a masterpiece & Disney's Magnum Opus.
Personally, I like the remake fine. But, it will never hold a candle to this phenomenal film.
too true too true
I agree 100%.
100% agree. The remake is an enjoyable film, but falls WAY short of the 1994 animated masterpiece.
@@OakViewFilms true
They need to get the remake's animation team to do more creative and ambitious projects. Something awesome. They paid thier dues, they worked hard.
The Lion King is #2 on my list of my favorite animated Disney Movies, second only to Pinocchio. I was born in 1994, so I was a one-year-old baby when this movie first premiered. I don't remember when I actually started watching this movie, but I do remember that I loved it very much. I especially loved the sequences from when Simba was still a child. Simba always looked cute, even when he got overconfident about becoming the new king. But even though it's his child cuteness that makes me like Simba, I cannot deny that I like his adult life as well. That's when Simba decides to go back to being royalty and take the Pride Lands back from Scar. That's when Simba develops his compassion for those who cannot defend themselves. I am also impressed that this was once the highest grossing animated movie in existence. That makes this feel like undeniable proof that hand-drawn animation is superior to computer animation in every single way. I should like to see another hand-drawn animated movie out-gross the Lion King to prove that point further, but don't let that deter you from seeing the Lion King as a landmark. By the way, yes, I did go see the stage play in New York City. And I did in fact have a good time at that stage play. I love The Lion King. I love everything about it, and I am proud to put this on my list of favorite animated Disney Movies.
Happy 100th Classic Review Animat and truly this was the animated disney film from my childhood!
This was the movie I grew up with. The center of my childhood, and the very reason I hold animation in high regards. It absolutely deserves it's final rating.
You know. I didn’t remember much watching this film when I was just a baby. All I remembered was the opening and the music. My baby mind wasn’t as well made as nowadays. It wasn’t until the 3D re-release in 2011 until I really got a better understanding of the film as it was practically my first full viewing of the film. And after that viewing, it would take it’s spot as one of my favorite animated movies of all time. The presentation is one of the best I’ve seen in any animated movie, every single characters is likable, believable, and entertaining, the music is unforgettable from the songs to Hans Zimmer’s score, and its powerful message about responsibility. It was one of the few animated features I’ve seen on the big screen during it’s run, not once, but twice. It’s one of the films that I’d say would deserve an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. Like, if they’re gonna nominate Up just for the opening alone, then they should’ve just given a nomination to this immediately as it has one of the best openings in any animated feature just like Up, on top of a grander scale and mature message. So, no surprises, this film is among my top 5 favorites animated movies of all time and I was really lucky to get my first full experience on the big screen in 3D. I almost wanna turn the clocks back to 2011 to see it again.
10/10
This movie didn't need it a remake.
@@DiegoHernandez-xt2su Black Panther isn't much better in my opinion.
Maria Jimena Figueroa and yet they made one anyways.
Maria Jimena Figueroa Are you kidding? Most of Disney’s live action remakes are pure and total junk. By the way, what excuse does the 2019 Lion king have to be called a live-action Film?
ArbyTV what’s next are they going to make a live action aristocats movie with Julia Roberts as duchess and John Goodman as Thomas O’Malley?
George Robertson shut up! Don’t give them any ideas!
Hooray 😃 Happy 100th Classic Review Animat
Oh sorry FardintheCartoonLover
Couldn’t think of a better movie to review for this occasion
Hard to believe that this MASTERPIECE came out 25 years ago.
Fun Facts: "Circle of Life" was released as a teaser trailer back in the early 90s. "Hakuna Matata" was also featured in Toy Story 1 as a Lion King reference.
@Your Mother, the part where Woody & Buzz were trying to get on board the moving truck.
@@joshmontemayor1212 yep
And Jim Cummings filled in for Jeremy Irons for the last few minutes of Be Prepared.
When circle of life played at the beginning I grab a simba plushie and lift it just like rafiki
Also congrats on your 100th classic review animat and for reviewing my favorite disney movie of all time thank you
I knew the lion king was going to get a 10/10!
As for the Next review: Open season 2, Open season 3, or Open season: Scared silly.... I don’t care which one it is. All of them suck.... so next review isn’t going to be as spectacular as it was with reviewing one of the greatest animated films of all times... ah well
And yes, it deserved that 10/10. No wonder it hasn't aged at all since it came out 25 years ago, and is still regarded as a animated CLASSIC. Compared to the recent remake, which despite already making over a billion dollars at the box office, will be forgotten about very quickly.
Luigi Marinus Gaming I wish it was my friend, but some other time. First we have to deal with the annoyance of boog and Elliot’s stupid misadventures
They are all gonna get 3/10 or 4/10, you’ll see
Is this a bad time to mention that I actually own and watched the first three Open Season movies? I skipped out on Scared Silly, because the name alone feels like it's more suited to be a Halloween special. But, would it be sad if I enjoyed the original trilogy?
Yeah, he reviewed the first, now he's reviewing one of the DTV sequels.
That 10/10 score reveal, with the actual film title card. Awesome. Now when you review The Incredibles anytime, give it The Lion King 1994 treatment, with the opening logo at the start and first bit of The Incredits when revealing the review score.
Thank you for giving credit to Hans Zimmer. He's sucha heavenly legend of a music composer.
I haven't seen the new one, only this one, and I hear that the new death for Mufasa is hilarious. It sounds hilarious, too.
@@calebkuti7897 Sounds like a good comedy.
Luigi Marinus Gaming, no. the movie deserves a 10/10, because of the story, the music, the characters (especially the villain), the moral, the voice acting, and most important to me, the animals. there's no other movie like it, and there never will be. The Lion King is a Movie Marvel.
even with the Remake, there is other movie to compare this 1994 marvel.
Scar literally just gives Mufasa a lazy punch and he actually falls of
@Emperor Scrat the theater was quiet when it happened
This movie was my childhood!
This film (the original, not the remake) contains what's essentially my mantra for life.
"I'm surrounded by idiots."
Nice review! This is absolutely my favorite Disney movie. It was the first film I ever saw in the theater and was a huge part of my childhood. I can't even express how much I love this one. The most iconic movie opening ever, fantastic songs, and amazing story, wonderful animation, and memorable characters. Perfect movie.
The Lion King has always been my favorite animated film. And it still is. I loved this film since I was a child and I still love it.
I don’t care if people call this an overrated movie, I watch it several times and it’s still a masterpiece as I remembered and you said it best what makes it such a wonderful experience. Even if it’s not everyone’s favorite, I will always treasure The Lion King in my heart.
1994: My favourite childhood movie of all time
2019: I'm sticking with the original one.
Disney65Fan I’ll still get the new one on DVD, but in all honesty, you’re right. The remake was unnecessary
Thank you, Lebo M and Carmen Twillie. Your singing is beautiful. The opening scene is a great example with its breathtaking scenery and colorful visuals to bring the world of Africa to life.
My score
The Story 10/10
The Animation 10/10
The Characters 10/10
The Songs 10/10
10/10
Fun fact
My parents has a cat called nala and she was named after the character from this movie
thats better then mine, I named mine koda-after brother bear......
blendblender intresting
I did not expect for him to review the original Lion King after the remake.
Uh-oh one of the open season sequels are up next. It's going to be animat smash.
Ooooooh yeah plus he’s a Sony hater so he will be yelling during the entire review
That’s a 2/10.
Fuze 007 I fixed it just now
Luigi Marinus Gaming no he already reviewed the first movie and he gave it a 4/10
its not that bad
Congratulations on your 100th classic review, and I'm surprised you didn't make any Kimba the White Lion references, but still great review anyway. P.S., I'm still waiting for somebody on patreon to request a review for Stitch! The Movie (2003).
Seriously? He hasn’t even reviewed the first film.
@@arbytv5139 Technically, he did 7 years ago on an update vlog where he expressed his opinion about the first film, I don't want him to re-review just yet, I want to see his reviews on the rest of the franchise before going back to the first film.
Make a request on Patreon request on Lio & Stitch if someone hasn’t yet.
@@colleendefabbio7736 I would like to but I'm not allowed to use Patreon.
We all know it’s a 10, why bother?
Animat predicted the future on his open season review
He knew he would have to review one of it’s sequels
There's a reason why people say "you can't top a masterpiece". You can't improve on something that's perfect. It can't be done.
14:22 this should be your new theme when you give a movie a 9 or 10/10
AniMat's Classic Reviews 2019
#1 The Lion King *9.8/10*
#2 (Tied) Perfect Blue & Toy Story 2 *9.7/10*
#4 Aladdin *9.3/10*
#5 The Great Mouse Detective *9/10*
#6 The Point *6.7/10*
#7 The Transformers: The Movie *5.8/10*
#8 Tentacolino *1.6/10*
This was the golden era of Disney. The Little Mermaid. Aladdin. Beauty and the Beast. And the Lion King. From 1989-1994 Disney created some of the best animated films of all time. Must've been quite the experience to grow up as a kid during that time.
The Rescuers Down Under
It’s remarkable when looking back on this, when the studio thought Lion King was gonna be a huge failure and it just became the complete opposite. Man, those were times when Disney were taking chances with their animated films. Not anymore today at least with the pointless remakes. I want that back.
We're just gonna have to wait for people to be less and less interesting into supporting the remakes and hope for Disney to pick up it's feet again.
I wouldn't call the remakes "pointless". They're there for those who want to watch them.
"It is time"- Rafiki
I love the Lion King. I actually own a blu Ray of it that actually includes a 3 frame film tape from the movie. Also Open season 2 is next
Hey it is a price to pay when mat reviewed a masterpiece from Rodger allers so he has to review a bad sequel of one his movies
One of the best films of all time.
The Lion King is one of the best animated Disney films and best animated masterpieces next to Fantasia and Spirited Away. Since I do love the film in my childhood, this motivate me to love animation and become a great animation filmmaker and why animation should considered an art form and be appealed to all ages from kids to adults and even families. As for the 2019 live action remake, uh..........I have yet to see it.
The Lion King became influenced and inspiration for my untitled wolf project about the kingdom of wolves in the forest fighting against humanity with strong theme of environmentalism. It's kinda like the Lion King but with wolves and to have wolves as good guys than cliche bad guys.
I'd pay money to see your wolf-based idea.
IdeaBox9000 Thank you!
Also I would love to make my animated wolf project beautifully 2d hand drawn animation like the Lion King since I'm getting sick and tired of computer animated films nowadays.
@@alexismartinez8343 Good luck!
Andreas Smith-Partee You're welcome.
For this film was always full of amazement, and forever timeless, especially for Disney.
I think even the remake can see that. "Often imitated, never duplicated.
14:31 I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE A 10!
No mention of Sirabi.
Me: (clicks on a video about the 1994 Lion King)
RUclips: (plays an ad for the remake)
Me: IMPOSTER!
Sus.
One of the many things I really appreciate about this movie now a days looking back is how exceptionally well. It was dubb’d into Swedish.
fun fact the guy who voiced Scar almost looke like him too.
You should review The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and Tarzan; they're the only Disney movies of the Renaissance that need to be checked
Happy 30th Anniversary To Disney's The Lion King (1994-2024)
The Lion King is one of my top ten favorite movies of all time and it’s my 2nd favorite Disney movie.
Harri927 what’s number 1
Ryan Whittaker Aladdin
This is my all time favorite movie in the world!!!!! I give it a 10/10. As for the remake, I’ll give it a 9/10; even though the original will always be better, I still really loved it.
"Remember who you are"
This is my Dad & Me movie. I remember he took me with him to work, he'd park his truck somewhere high. and we'd stare at the landscape and he'd teach me stuff about life. Often we'd talk about girls, his work, sports (you name it). We really bonded and to this day if I ever see the movie or something that reminds me of that movie. I get nostalgic and remember my old man. I'm so proud to be his son, nowadays we talk everyday and hopefully if I ever have kids, I'll show them this amazing masterpiece and tell them the stories I had with my dad
Bruh i actually wheezed when scar slapped mufasa off the cliff and dropped my popcorn when lil simba screamed
My all time favourite Disney animated film
Amazing job on the review, Animat! I gotta say, this is probably one of your best reviews. And no, I'm not saying that as a "Lion King" fan (though it helps), but rather for how well you explained your thoughts on the film. You did an especially great job discussing the royalty theme in the story.
Ooh... better be prepared for your next classic review. I'm sure it'll be all slime and no satisfaction.
Both this and the 2019 film are my favourite movies of all time
Was actually in college when this came out. I still watched it at age 19.
Just a perfect movie
Great story, amazing Animation recognizable characters that I grew up with and beautiful music
It's a movie i could watch again and again
Arguably Disney's best movie ever no debate it's a timeless movie that will never get old for etrinty
The Lion King is my favorite movie of all time
Today, I met Aaron Blaise, the supervising animator of Young Nala.
Oof! Missed one 10/10. But regardless, I absolutely agree. Of all the Disney Classics, The Lion King is my all-time favorite!
I knew Animat was gonna give this movie the animat seal of approval
I just realized that with the exception of Tentacolino, Animat was on a pretty good streak with animated films in the classic reviews series this year...that is until we learn that (spoiler alert): the next classic review will be open season 2
Lion King: 11/10; not just my favorite Disney movie nor one of my favorite animated films, but one of my favorite movies of all time!
Lion King 2019: 5/10
I agree with both of your ratings.
@@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003 If you like the remake, that's fine, but I can't for the life of me understand people when they say they prefer it more than the original. It's not the worst film I've ever seen and there are a few things I like about it, but at best, it's just a mediocre copy of this classic movie.
@@PussInBootsTheLastWishFan2003 I think the realism in the remake is both a pro and a con itself. Sure, it's amazing how they make the animals look like actual animals, but when those real animals are in a Lion King remake with stone-faced reactions, it takes away the emotional core of the story.
The Mufasa ghost scene is the perfect example. In the original, the animation of a lion in the clouds look absolutely stunning and Simba's reaction to it is awe-inspiring. It's the reason why it's the most powerful scene in the whole movie. In the remake, it's just clouds in the sky with an occasional lightning strike, showing Mufasa's face while Simba doesn't even react at all. That scene is practically begging to go all out with the effects, but the film is busy getting so preoccupied on capturing realism, it sucks all the Disney magic away.
I have an upcoming school assignment about this movie, so I am watching this to refresh my brain. One of my favorite movies!
What you said with the movie "still having power no matter how many times you watch" is so true. I can't count how many times I've seen this movie, but I never tire of it. I still get emotional, and I still find myself dancing/singing to the songs. It's just such a perfect movie. Which is why I have no freaking idea why Disney felt the need to remake it, other than to make a few bucks. :/
This is one of my favorite movies of all time
I always love the lion king since I was little, and it will forever be in my heart forever, next to how to train Your Dragon franchise and Steven universe, thanks for reviewing for my favorite animated film, animat!!
100th classic review!
Also next is one of the open season movies haha
To interpret the life cycle and royal lyniage in a inspiration way was a huge accomplishment by everyone involved. Another informative and entertaining review. Keep it up!
The greatest and the best movie the team at Disney has ever made. 😁🙌👍👏🍿🎬
The film's animation is so beautiful thanks to its brilliant hand-drawn techniques, its voice performances from the cast are awesome, its music is unforgettable and it told a very good story about honor and responsibility.
I think The Lion King is the Climax of Animat's reviews. not just Classics, but his Reviews in general.
So this movie was just buildup for Pocahontas which was supposed to be the big blockbuster
at least the songs in The 1994 Lion King is better then The 2019 Lion King remake
I always compared The Lion King to DreamWorks The Prince Of Egypt and Joseph King Of Dreams, they both have biblical feelings, It's really get 10/10 as The Best Disney Animated Movie of all time.
I remember watch the 1990s film of The Lion King before of my childhood and it was awesome then and it’s still awesome today for Disney fans
20th anniversary of the special editon
At last! The review of my favorite film of all time! I have loved this movie ever since I first watched it as a kid! It has everything an animated film should have: a great story, a great cast of characters, great animation, and great music. Now, Animat has only two more nineties Disney movies to tackle: Beauty and the Beast, and Tarzan.
Great Review Animat. I love The Lion King and I agree on the praises you gave to this movie.
And also, throughout this year, you watch a lot of good movies the Patreon people gave to you (except for the Animated Titanic movie starting this year) they gave you really good movies like; Aladdin, Toy Story 2, The Great Mouse Detective, and a few more. But Sadly, your streak has ended with watching good movies, as it is time for you to watch an Open Season sequel!
The live-action remake looks like one of those Disney Nature films.
Ironically the lion guard is playing while I’m watching this video
The next classic review is an Open Season sequel.
Which one?
Can’t wait
Mario Chan Studios 2.0 - I don’t know. I’m too lazy to look these sequels up. Might be the first sequel.
Luigi Marinus Gaming - Dude. Stop trying to be funny. You’re not very good at it.
Luigi Marinus Gaming - I can’t tell if you’re intentionally being stupid right now, but the hint at the end of this video made it extremely obvious that’s it’s NOT Toy Story.
I'm glad you're giving it a perfect score. Now, I'll admit, I'm surprised that it doesn't hit # 1 on Disney animated classics for my rankings, because I'm in my 30s now, and I was 9 when it was 1st in theaters, and to this day this is even still one of my favorite movies. Of course, there is that there are some other Disney animated movies that are around as high as this one, but this is in my top 5. There were just a few other movies that for me were up there with this one. But, this is definitely one of the best animated movies out there, and as a movie nerd this is still a movie I watch over and over again as an adult!
Lion King is still huge in the furry community. It just has that exact right balance of feral and anthro. Feral enough to be exciting and having to work around their anatomy. Yet still anthro enough that it's easy to work with and relate to the characters. Also the world building is just right. Showing enough detail that people get a firm grasp on the idea but leaving it vague enough that people can build on it with their own ideas.
Comics of Lion King are still being made all the time and some are really good. One of my favorites is "dark times" which goes into Scar's reign of the pridelands. How he was a neglectful yet still manipulative king and how the pride is cracking apart and the land is falling to ruin. It really was the comic that made Sarabi one of my favorite characters as she is just so strong. The art is not super high quality but the writing more than makes up for it.
still one of the best. Will you review the underrated sequel too?
Rafiki is not a Baboon, he's a Mandrill, yes I know he calls himself a baboon, but that's because during the 90s not everyone had a great knowledge of animals, but they did a lot of research of animals to see what is the right names for them in the 2000s, by the way there is a article about the difference between a Baboon and Mandrill, in the article, Mandrills were thought to be baboons, but that was not the case, because Mandrill was considered a different genus and species as well, by the way there are pictures of Baboons and Mandrills to tell you difference of them.
Best movie ever! No matter how many times I've seen this film, it always finds a way to fascinate me one way or another.
The highlight of this film is the Orchestra & African music by hans & lebo
Story: 9/10
Animation: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Songs: 9/10
Score: 9/10 (Great)
Happy 25th anniversary “The Lion King”! Long live the king!
Animat: I’m gonna miss reviewing this
Me: What about Lion King 2 and 1/2?
John Contreras I think if he reviews the lion king 2 simba’s pride and the lion king 1 1/2 I bet these will be the scores
The lion king 2 simba’s pride
Story: 7/10
Animation: 8/10
Characters: 9/10
Songs: 7/10
Overall
7/10
The lion king 1 1/2
Story: 7/10
Animation: 9/10
Characters: 8/10
Songs: 8/10
Overall
8/10
Yeah, it still holds up. 😀
My parents took me and my twin sister to see this when they re-released in IMAX when I was a kid. We weren't around when the movie originally came out (I was born a year later) and I guess they felt it was worth the hour and a half trip to see it on the big screen. They were 100% right. To see it on such a massive screen blew my 6 year old mind. And when I went to school the next day I was the envy of everyone (teachers included.) The only time I can say I was just as blown away was when I saw it on Broadway in NYC with my high school choir. I honestly wish they would still re-release the movies on the big screen. Every one deserves the opportunity to see a Disney movie on the big screen.
The Lion King is and still remains to this day one of my favorite Disney films, animated or not, and I’m glad and excited to see you do a review of it and hear your thoughts on this iconic Disney film. Thanks 🤩
Looks like Disney having the best time in the 90s decade
I have a sudden urge to watch the 1994 Lion King again.