The king has returned.
“The Lion King Special Edition” was released today by Walt Disney Pictures after spending the past few years locked in the Disney vault.
Originally released in 1994, the story follows the life of Simba, a young lion cub who “just can’t wait to be king.” As the only son of the revered Mufasa, he is the sole heir to the kingdom of the Pride Lands.
This fact is, of course, very upsetting to his uncle Scar who was next in line for the throne until Simba was born. As Simba learns the basics of kingship from his father, the evil Scar develops his own plan to usurp the throne.
After killing Mufasa and forcing Simba into exile from the Pride Lands, Scar assumes the role of king and gives a pack of blood-thirsty hyenas control over the once fertile lands.
After wandering alone in the heat of an unforgiving desert, Simba meets two of the movie’s most hilarious characters: Timon, a self-involved meerkat, and Pumbaa, a lovably flatulent warthog.
Simba, who blames himself for the death of his father (with a little goading from Scar), spends his adolescence with the unlikely pair, learning the philosophy of “Hakuna Matata,” no worries.
Simba is believed to be dead until Rafiki, a prophetic baboon, discovers that he is living in the outskirts of the jungle. Rafiki tries to convince Simba to take his place in the “Circle of Life,” but it is only after being found (and seduced) by his childhood friend, Nala, that Simba decides to return home to claim his rightful place as king.
The film climaxes with an unforgettable battle between Simba and Scar, where Simba finally learns the truth about his father’s death and exacts his revenge.
With breath-taking scenery, hilarious adventures, amazing music and an unforgettable story line, it is no wonder that “The Lion King” is considered the greatest animated film of all time.
Featuring the voices of Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons and James Earl Jones, and music by Sir Elton John and Tim Rice, the film instantly found its way into the hearts of children and adults alike.
Having won Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Song, the film became a classic in its own time, and fans have patiently waited for its re-release.
Out on DVD for the first time ever, the new Platinum Edition is a two-disc feature loaded with tons of new material, including a new song titled “Morning Report,” all new music videos and a virtual safari tour.
For true fans of the film who do not want to see anything different from the original theatrical release, don’t despair. The special edition includes both the original feature and the updated version.
Defying the stereotypes of animated films, “The Lion King” exceeds all boundaries. It is a genuine masterpiece that will be loved for generations to come.
