The Lion King
Metascore
83 out of 100

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. ReelViews
    Reviewed by: James Berardinelli
    88
    There are moments of fun and humor, to be sure, but the undercurrent is of a far more serious, "adult" nature. The Lion King is primarily about guilt and redemption.
  2. New York Daily News
    Reviewed by: Jami Bernard
    100
    Pure, eye-popping pleasure.
  3. Rolling Stone
    Reviewed by: Peter Travers
    100
    A hugely entertaining blend of music, fun and eye-popping thrills, though it doesn't lack for heart.
  4. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Rob Humanick
    Sep 12, 2011
    63
    Although far from the worst offender in Disney's canon, The Lion King is nevertheless host to many of the less savory qualities common to the studio's output.
  5. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Roger Ebert
    88
    Basically what we have here is a drama, with comedy occasionally lifting the mood. The result is a surprising seriousness; this isn't the mindless romp with cute animals.
  6. The Globe and Mail (Toronto)
    Reviewed by: Rick Groen
    75
    For all the undeniable merits, it somehow feels manufactured, and thus, to a degree, calculated - the product not of a collective imagination taking esthetic chances, but of an imaginative collective putting the rivets into a well-wrought plan that can't go awry.
  7. Film Threat
    90
    A timeless classic, full of excitement, humor, witty asides and memorable characters.
  8. TV Guide
    Reviewed by: Staff (Not credited)
    60
    The film has some of Disney's most spectacular animation yet -- particularly in the wildebeest stampede -- and strong vocal performances, especially by skilled Broadway comedian Nathan Lane. However, it suffers from a curiously undeveloped story line.
  9. Austin Chronicle
    Reviewed by: Robert Faires
    78
    It's a thumping good adventure.
  10. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Owen Gleiberman
    91
    Has the resonance to stand not just as a terrific cartoon but as an emotionally pungent movie.
  11. Washington Post
    Reviewed by: Desson Thomson
    90
    This is the Mickey Mouse factory at its finest, with inventive animation, stirring music and a pride of inspired, almost-human animals.
  12. Variety
    Reviewed by: Jeremy Gerard
    80
    A dazzling -- and unexpectedly daring -- addition to the Disney canon.
  13. Chicago Reader
    Reviewed by: Jonathan Rosenbaum
    70
    The result is a step toward multiculturalism and ecological correctness, though not without a certain amount of confusion. The movie is not quite as entertaining as "The Little Mermaid" or "Beauty and the Beast."
  14. Washington Post
    Reviewed by: Hal Hinson
    50
    Shakespearean in tone, epic in scope, it seems more appropriate for grown-ups than for kids. If truth be told, even for adults it is downright strange.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.4 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 262 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 80 out of 87
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 87
  3. Negative: 6 out of 87
  1. grandpajoe6191
    9
    Disney animation's "The Lion King" is a masterpiece and the godfather of all animations.
  2. RezzaDee
    10
    An outstanding film, back when people put there heart into everything to be proud of there achievements and to express there talents which were recognized by Disney later choosing the cast very, very well. This film I want to say is my best Disney film however I also love Aladdin :). Then B&TB and Hercules. Anyway. This film has a lot of guidance and morals for all ages. Makes me think whats happened to Disney :( Mufasa (James Earl Jones) is Simba's dad and has the perfect voice for a strong lion teaching his son the lessons in life. Like not to take being future king for granted, it's not about getting your own way. And that everyone is one. He also tells his son about the stars, and if he is not here in later life, then to look up at the stars as all of the great kings are up there watching over him. Samba being a small cub has to learn the hard way because of his evil uncle scar. At first he truss to trick samba and forces him to go against his fathers will. It ends up with samba leaving pride rock, but finds two true friends who bring him back to his normal self with the help of an old friend and his fathers friend who christened him at birth. Samba returns to pride Rock some years later, returning the once great land back to how it used to be. And continues with Simba and Nala having a child of there own. And continues, the circle of life. such powerful scenes that can make grown men cry (who are not dead inside) and powerful voice acting that fit each roll perfectly. A brilliant soundtrack that fits very well. And also the meanings and morals in this film alone are what society today is very rappdley loosing. If only James Earl jones could be the king of England! Ohh and must say that I love zazu too :) (probally spelt it wrong)… Full Review »
  3. cameronmorewood
    10
    A wonderful work of animation that is vibrant with color, song, and a stellar emotional core.
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