«The Lion King»: a botoxed Disney2 reading minutes

Cinema Wednesdays - Melisa Oriol

We recycle, we recycle, but do we need to recycle everything? Is it for lack of inspiration, pure commercial interest or the need to show off and exploit today's technologies and tricks that Disney has reproduced the Lion King, a film that's already been widely recognized and appreciated?

The story is the same, and virtually every shot is exactly the same. So when I'm asked if the film is any good, I answer without hesitation: yes! But that's because it's an exact reproduction of the 1994 cartoon that marked my childhood. Everything is there, from the music that made it famous to the fine chemistry between Timon and Pumba. And yet, in this new version, there's a little something missing...

Marble realism

At first glance, the film is surprisingly realistic. The scenery is breathtaking and really captures the African panorama. The animals, meanwhile, are not to be outdone; they look so real that you're almost tempted to stroke their coats. From their physique to their attitude, a remarkable job has been done to give the impression of reality and life. Even Pumba, who doesn't really look like a warthog in the cartoon, this time looks just as ugly as he does in real life, but that doesn't detract from his charm and humor.

However, in its concern for realism, the film forgot the essential thing through which emotions flow: expressions. What makes each cartoon character unique and expressive are their faces and gestures. The wide eyes, the raised or furrowed eyebrows, the smiles of joy or tears of sadness... These are all elements that are unfortunately not found in the live-action film, but which make the characters so appealing. It's the first time I haven't cried at Mufasa's death! It lacks that little something that makes it all happen, and plunges us into the film wholeheartedly.

Hakuna Matata

Timon and Pumbaa! While many scenes have lost their fragility and magic, this mythical duo fortunately retains all the humor of the original. As simple and faithful as ever, one can't do without the other. You'll find them throwing stones at each other, cracking jokes and singing along. They breathe life and freshness into too much seriousness. The two pair up with their strong characters, often resulting in increasingly hilarious sequences.

In short, the remake remains a good film to see independently of the original. For the few who haven't had the chance to see the 1994 cartoon, this is the perfect opportunity to discover this Disney Studios masterpiece. As for those who grew up with the Lion King, However, they're sure to enjoy this new film, as it's very similar to the first except for a few details, and brings back fond childhood memories.

Write to the author: melisa.oriol@leregardlibre.com

Photo credit: © The Walt Disney Company (Switzerland) GmbH