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Movie of the Week: The Lion King (Live-Action, 2019)

If I had to grade this, it would be a B+. I enjoyed it, but let’s be honest — it doesn’t hold a candle to the original. The problem with “redoing” a movie that’s already perfect is that there’s nothing you can expand upon. Yes, it was cool seeing all of my favorite characters look real, but if I ever have the urge to watch The Lion King, I will undoubtedly always choose the animated.

The best part of this film was Timon (and Pumba by association). Billy Eincher nailed it as the sarcastic meerkat. I was constantly laughing every time Timon spoke. And yes, I did love the Beauty & the Beast reference in this movie. Who wouldn’t? James Earl Jones returned as Mufasa and, of course, he was perfection. His voice always brings me right back to my childhood and hearing him play this character again was probably the best casting decision this film could’ve made.


Surprisingly, it was the title characters who ruined the movie for me. Once Simba and Nala became "adults," it sort of went downhill. I can't really explain why. Maybe because I knew it was Donald Glover and Beyonce voicing the characters that it took me out of the movie? Beyonce's voice especially was instantly recognizable, more so than any other voice actor, and it completely threw me. I hate to say it but I did not like her rendition of Nala. Did anyone else feel this way?

Overall, I would not recommend this movie. If you’re a Lion King fan, you’ll enjoy yourself. It’s not better than the original, but I didn’t go into this film thinking that it would anyway, so I’m satisfied. Take this as a warning, however — the death scene will still make you cry like a baby, so if you get embarrassed crying in front of other people, head to the bathroom during this scene. It’s still that bad.


Have you seen this film? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

***I do not own these photos/gifs.

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