Every Lion King Movie, Ranked - Investment Policy

Summary

The Lion King franchise includes various films, with more planned, such as “Black Is King” and “Simba’s Pride.”
“The Lion King 1 1/2” is an unconventional side-quel focusing on Timon and Pumbaa’s story parallel to the original film.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a prequel giving insight into Simba’s father’s life and legacy, breaking away from expectations.

As someone who grew up in the ’90s and was fortunate enough to witness the release of Disney’s masterpiece, The Lion King, I can confidently say that this movie holds a special place in my heart. Having watched it countless times, singing along to the soundtrack, and quoting lines from it with friends, I can attest to its timeless appeal and enduring impact on pop culture.

The Lion King is more than just an animated film; it’s a story that transcends generations and resonates deeply within us all. Its themes of family, responsibility, and the circle of life are universal and relatable, making it a movie that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

But let me tell you, nothing compares to the original 1994 release. The hand-drawn animation, the iconic soundtrack, and the unforgettable characters have all stood the test of time. From the opening scene with Mufasa gazing out over the Pride Lands, to Simba’s return to Pride Rock at the end, every moment is filled with emotion, beauty, and a sense of wonder that I haven’t found in any other movie.

Now, as a father myself, I can appreciate The Lion King even more, as it serves as a reminder of the importance of passing down stories and values to our children. And let me tell you, my little one loves hearing the story of Simba and his journey back to Pride Rock!

To top it all off, the original film has given us some truly iconic lines that have become ingrained in our collective consciousness. “Hakuna Matata,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” and “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” are just a few examples of the catchy tunes and memorable quotes that continue to bring a smile to my face.

So, if you haven’t yet experienced The Lion King or it’s been a while since you last watched it, I highly recommend giving it another go. Just remember, don’t hesitate to sing along, quote your favorite lines, and let the magic of this movie transport you back to the Pride Lands once more!

Oh, and as for the live-action remake, well, let’s just say that no one can ever replace the original Simba… except maybe my own little cub!

Despite not seeming so at first glance, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is indeed part of a well-established franchise. This timeless tale, which was originally inspired by Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and brought to life in animated form in the early 90s, has become one of Disney’s cherished assets. Although not all releases have sparked the same level of excitement as the recent live-action adaptations, the “Lion King” franchise is rich with memorable characters, stunning animation, and most notably, catchy tunes.

The “Lion King” movie series spans multiple formats, versions, and levels of popularity. Some devoted Disney fans might have missed watching the sequels to the original animated film. So far, these are all the movies set in the cherished land of Pride Rock from the “Lion King” universe, with more films expected due to recent success and planning.

6. Black Is King

The Companion Album Movie

IMDb Score: 5.9
Starring: Folajomi Akinmurele, Beyoncé & Nyaniso Ntsikelelo Dzedze
Directed By: Beyoncé & Crew
Released: July 2020

Although not a direct sequel or prequel, “Black Is King” is commonly perceived as an extension of the “Lion King” franchise, with Beyoncé producing it as a visual accompaniment to her album, “The Lion King: The Gift”. Being a significant addition to the contemporary series, Beyoncé’s musical contributions, combined with captivating visuals and a narrative heavily influenced by “The Lion King”, create an unexpectedly engaging viewing experience.

The movie “Black Is King” narrates the tale of a young African prince who was exiled and later returned to reclaim his throne, with Beyoncé portraying an ancestor. This film serves as a powerful symbol, reflecting the journey of African descendants reclaiming their narratives and heritage. Given the current context, its themes resonate profoundly, making it a fantastic addition to the series and a thought-provoking companion piece.

5. The Lion King 1 1/2

The Shining Spotlight For Timon & Pumbaa

IMDb Score: 6.5
Starring: Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella & Julie Kavner
Directed By: Bradley Raymond
Released: February 2004

This Disney movie appears to be an uncommon choice for a 1 1/2 entry, which is not a typical sequel but rather a spin-off, often called a “sidequel.” In this story, Timon and Pumbaa share their adventures that unfold (primarily) alongside the original tale of The Lion King. They reveal details about how they met and had a larger role in the events of the first film than initially suggested.

In “The Lion King 1 1/2,” Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella reprise their roles, delving into Timon’s backstory, expanding on Pumbaa’s struggles, and depicting how they first crossed paths. This sequel supplements the events of the original film, making it not essential viewing but certainly worthwhile and intriguing nonetheless.

4. The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride

An Exciting Follow-Up Faithful To The Original

IMDb Score: 6.4
Starring: Neve Campbell, Jason Marsden & Matthew Broderick
Directed By: Darrell Rooney
Released: October 1998

While contemporary audiences may not be overly fond of sequel films by Disney released directly on DVD (or VHS), there are a handful that merit a watch. One such example is “Simba’s Pride,” a continuation of the story from “The Lion King” featuring many of the original voice actors. This film drew its narrative inspiration from the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet, keeping in line with the franchise’s tradition of drawing from the works of Shakespeare to further develop its themes.

In my perspective as a movie reviewer, I’d say: “Years ago, I found myself drawn into the captivating tale of ‘The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride.’ This sequel, often overlooked by Disney fans, is a hidden gem that deserves another look. The story revolves around Simba’s daughter, Kiara, who finds herself torn between her love for Kovu, an outcast lion from Scar’s once-loyal pride, and the efforts of Zira, their treacherous mother, to keep them apart. This emotional journey is both heartbreaking and fascinating, offering a fresh perspective on the world of Pride Rock. Despite being a sequel, it transcends the typical Disney Toon mold, thanks in part to an impressive voice cast that includes Neve Campbell. Don’t make the mistake of overlooking this gem – ‘The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride’ is more than just another sequel; it’s a testament to the enduring power of love and family.

3. Mufasa: The Lion King

A Prequel Worth Telling About A Beloved Figure

IMDb Score: 6.8
Starring: Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr & John Kani
Directed By: Barry Jenkins
Released: December 2024

Despite some skepticism about producing a prequel to “The Lion King 2” before moving on with the sequel, Barry Jenkins steered this film focusing on Simba’s father. He dedicated the production to the late James Earl Jones and crafted a new chapter for the “The Lion King” franchise that broke free from conventional expectations, creating an entirely fresh legacy in the process.

In simpler terms, the movie Mufasa narrates the tale of how Mufasa tragically lost his family and was brought up by a king, sharing his childhood with a brother named Taka. Later, he embarks on an adventure to discover the mythical Milele, accompanied by Sarabi, Zazu, and Rafiki. This captivating film is enriched with fresh songs, cameos from beloved characters, and a detailed account of how a young lion transforms into a legend. For enthusiasts of the franchise, Mufasa offers an exciting glimpse into the series’ promising future.

2. The Lion King (2019)

A Worthy Live-Action Successor

IMDb Score: 6.8
Starring: Donald Glover, Beyoncé & Chiwetel Ejiofor
Directed By: Jon Favreau
Released: July 2019

Despite some negative feedback about Disney’s recent live-action adaptations of classic animated tales, there are several films that have earned their spot in cinematic history. For instance, “The Lion King” stands out with its stellar ensemble featuring Donald Glover and Beyoncé. The film also brought back James Earl Jones as Mufasa, while offering a fresh retelling of Simba’s story through stunning new visuals, extended run time, and an impressive new soundtrack by Hans Zimmer.

Refashioning the timeless tale of The Lion King, director Jon Favreau leveraged his expertise from directing the reboot of The Jungle Book to deliver an impressive, visually stunning remake. The captivating CGI and stunning visuals breathed new life into the narrative. Beyoncé’s latest hit “Spirit” and the updated songs, combined with cherished scenes, lines infused with fresh ideas, humor, and inspirational moments, elevated The Lion King, making it a compelling restart for the franchise.

1. The Lion King (1994)

The Original Masterpiece, Never To Be Outdone

IMDb Score: 8.5
Starring: Matthew Broderick, Moira Kelly & James Earl Jones
Directed By: Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff
Released: June 1994

Thirty years have passed since the debut of “The Lion King,” and it continues to stand as a remarkable peak, not only for Disney but for the whole animated film genre. The tale of Simba, deceived into fleeing following his father’s demise by his uncle, is deeply etched in the fabric of popular culture.

This amazing soundtrack, filled with tunes you’ll instantly recognize, along with its epic scenes, stunning animation, and unforgettable characters, create a symphony of a movie. It’s a fast-paced, entertaining, and quotable masterpiece that has yet to be surpassed in the realm of animated films or any film within this story’s franchise.

2025-01-02 16:25