This four-disc set collects the first 26 episodes (of 52 total) of Kimba the White Lion, one of the earliest anime series shown on American TV, and one which many anime fans feel Disney plundered to make The Lion King (of course, Kimba creator Osamu Tezuka took his influence from Disney's Bambi). The kindhearted young Kimba, who becomes leader of the jungle's animals after his father Caesar is killed by hunters, believes that all animals should live in peace with one another (and the show does address the question of what the carnivores will eat if they can't eat other animals). With humankind's reputation as a despoiler of nature, it's notable that Kimba believes that the animals should learn from humans, and under him they learn agriculture, music, and human language. Overall, this is still an enjoyably nostalgic kids' show, full of cute animals and slapstick (and occasional continuity or logic problems--in one episode, the animals are inexplicably able to visit Paris!). Kimba was Japan's first color anime series, and the animation is excellent for its time. The DVD transfer, from less-than-perfect masters, is serviceable, though the picture is occasionally over-dark. Since the four discs are also available separately for $14.95 each, libraries may wish to gauge interest by buying just one or two rather than springing for the box set all at once. Recommended. Aud: P. (S. Raiteri)
Kimba the White Lion Boxed Set
(1966) 4 discs. 695 min. DVD: $59.95. Rhino Home Video (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 18, Issue 4
Kimba the White Lion Boxed Set
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: