So many animated features breeze by us with a few fart and poop jokes and that's it. The Lion King has the ability to spark discussion between kids and parents about aspects like life and death. Kids aren't taught that lions and zebras can run around in fields together without consequence. This one aspect alone makes The Lion King a more grown-up, realistic animated feature. Not 'The Lion King.' Mufasa talks openly with Simba about how they do eat other animals, but he's able to explain it in such a way that it makes the process seem more respectable and less like animal homicide. Providing an illusion where ferocious carnivores don't actually eat any of the cute herbivores. Most movies that involve animals, both predatory and prey, usually treat everyone like equals. He explains to Simba that life and nature have a natural balance. His father, Mufasa (James Earl Jones) is king of the pride lands.

Simba (Jonathan Taylor Thomas) is a king in waiting. Only a very small percentage of films in history could pull off a feat like that.

Seventeen years later and people are still clamoring to see this movie on the big screen. In fact, it was just rereleased in theaters and handily beat out the competition for the number one spot. Not too many movies have staying power like that. The end product that Disney put out has enthralled audiences since its release. Truthfully, it doesn't matter to me one way or the other. Sharing, borrowing, and adapting has been commonplace in moviemaking for years. Disney insists it's their take on Hamlet. Some say it was lifted directly from the Japanese story of Kimba the White Lion. The Lion King isn't without its controversy. After revisiting it on Blu-ray I've come to the conclusion that it's simply a timeless animated feature that will continue to be loved by people the world over decade after decade. It sucks you in with its illustrious animation, and keeps you interested because of its intriguing story and fun characters. It's one of Disney's most sweepingly epic movies. There's something about The Lion King that makes me feel like a kid again.

(Written by Aaron Peck for the Diamond Edition Blu-ray.)

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