The Lion King

Why another remake after the original animated feature and Broadway musical adaptation? Simply, because new eye-popping photo-animation makes The Lion King look as if it is all live-action. The story begins with King Mufasa (James Earl Jones) and his mate Sarabi (Alfre Woodard) introducing newborn Simba to the savannah—much to the consternation of the king’s jealous brother Scar (Chiwetel Ejiofor). A while later, after young Simba warbles “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” conniving Scar lures Simba into a steep ravine where malevolent hyenas launch a wildebeest stampede. After making sure that Mufasa takes a fatal plunge, treacherous Scar slyly convinces Simba that it was all his fault—leaving the latter no choice but to flee. In his travels, now-adult Simba (Donald Glover) acquires two carefree companions—witty meerkat Timon (Billy Eichner) and genial-if-gassy warthog Pumbaa (Seth Rogen)—who teach him their philosophy: “Hakuna Matata,” meaning “no worries.” Meanwhile, sneering Scar and his scavenging hyenas turn the fertile Pride Lands into barren desert. Eventually, Simba’s best friend/betrothed Nala (Beyoncé) convinces him to return to assume his rightful role as king. Augmenting Hans Zimmer’s score with the classic tunes by Elton John and Tim Rice and a new song by Beyoncé (almost sure to be Oscar-nominated), this is highly recommended. [Note: Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Jon Favreau, “The Journey” three-part behind-the-scenes documentary including “The Magic” (21 min.), “The Timeless Tale” (19 min.), and “The Music” (14 min.), a “More to Be Scene” progression segment (11 min.), an intro by Favreau (2 min.), the music videos “Spirit” by Beyoncé and “Never Too Late” by Elton John, a sing-along option, a song selection option, and bonus DVD and digital copies of the film. Bottom line: a fine extras package for a winning remake.] (S. Granger)