User Score
8.2 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 196 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 28 out of 196

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  1. Sep 22, 2011
    9
    Disney animation's "The Lion King" is a masterpiece and the godfather of all animations.
  2. Sep 19, 2011
    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) Expand
  3. HunterH.
    Dec 31, 2002
    10
    Yup, Lion King is great. To Michelle P. - Spirited Away was NOT a Disney movie. They just dubbed Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece and slapped their name on it. Just so posterity knows. :)
    • 2 of 2 users said yes
  4. Bequiet!Thismovie'sgreat!
    Mar 20, 2003
    10
    A beautiful movie that needs better respect from everyone who says "'Lilo and Stitch' was better. It had no singing". True, "Lilo and Stitch" is a great movie, but not the greatest. "The Lion King" contained no sign humanity. Had there been humanity, this movie would be a disaster. It had gorgeous animation and true characters. If only disney made more movies like this.
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  5. Simbapeter
    Jan 13, 2003
    10
    What can I say about it? Since 1994 when I was 16 I saw the movie here in Venezuela. I could not imagine how good it was. I'm 24 now and "I can't wait to see it" bad joke I know. I just want to say that. If you didn't see it in the past, run to your nearest Imax theather and see it. At least rent the VHS video and you will see that this movie worth the money you will expent on it.
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  6. Katherine
    Jul 24, 2006
    10
    This is my favorite Disney movie. I know that it is not that it does not have very much facts, but it's just a movie. It's fantasy, and fantasy can have anything. So yes I give it a 10.
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  7. JaredB.
    Mar 22, 2007
    10
    This is one of my favorite movies of all time. The cast, led by Jonathan Taylor Thomas and Matthew Broderick, was simply amazing. The animation was absolutely brilliant. The movie is just incredible. If you haven't seen it, I strongly recommend it for kids and adults
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  8. MichelleP.
    Dec 29, 2002
    10
    Come ON people! This is the greatest Disney animated feature (next to Spirited Away) ever! The animation is beautiful, the songs are either beautiful or catchy, and it was just an all-around fantastic film! This is the kind of movie Disney doesn't make enough of. Now they're making corny films like "Treasure Planet" and "Scamp's Adventure". It's no wonder this got a 98. I thought it deserved a 100 (it's the most acclaimed animated film in history!) but 98 is good enough. Way to go, Disney! Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  9. JessicaK.
    Feb 23, 2003
    10
    It's so obvious that people will look at this movie, and say, "Oh yeah...the Lion King, it's the dumbest movie ever because it's a kid's movie, a disney movie, and it has songs". The fact that it's a movie for kids doesn't mean it's only for kids, it means it'll be appealing for them. I mean, Spirited Away was called a Kid's Movie, yet the older ones can still love and enjoy it. The fact that it's a disney film doesn't mean anything at all. This is one of disney's better movies along with other masterpieces like Beauty and the Beast. That movie (and the Lion King) have been enjoyed by childeren, teenagers, and adults alike. The reason most people think disney movies are stupid, is because they haven't gone back to the old ones, which, like the Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, are true classics, and most of the disney movies out are either a poor ones like, Treasure Planet or the new sequels to the disney classics like Peter Pan or Lady and the Tramp, or they're mediocre films like Tarzan or Lilo & Stitch. As for the songs, so what? Chicago had songs, and it was still fantastic (in fact, that was main reason it was fantastic). The Lion King included some memorable catchy songs as well, go buy the soundtrack if you're too embarassed to see the movie. Yes, the animals do talk, but that's because there's no humans seen or mentioned in the film at all, so it wouldn't ruin it. The animation was positively gorgeous. Not a single character looked absurd. The lion's movments when walking were done so accurately, and the voice acting is perfect. The plot may sound small, but when you watch the movie or read the script, you'll see what a true epic it is. I think the Lion Kind deserves more praise, respect, and a higher score (but it's still a universal acclaim, and I suppose that's good enough). See it, and be amazed at its beauty. Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  10. ChrisM.
    Apr 28, 2007
    10
    Perhaps it's because it's an essential part of my childhood, but The Lion King will always be regarded by me as one of the greatest cartoons ever made. Yes, it's an adaptation of Hamlet, but one that communicates with children and adults alike. There is depth to Simba which is unparalleled in many other Disney movies. Perhaps it's nostalgia, but I think kids today cannot comprehend what they're missing. I, for one, miss the anticipation of the yearly 2-D Disney cartoon. I guess I'm still a kid at heart. Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  11. Oct 1, 2011
    10
    The Lion King may not be *the* greatest movie of all time, but it's probably in the top 10 or so. The plot is pretty standard fare, but it doesn't even matter, because it's all about the presentation of that story. Speaking of which, the animation, voice acting, songs, and emotional element of The Lion King carry it to such great heights, and come pretty close to perfect. I look back on it today, and some of the opening scenes still give me goosebumps when I watch the sun rising over the savanna. And then you have the saddest scene in just about any modern Disney movie... those who've seen it (everybody at this point) know what I'm talking about. All in all, it's a beautiful film of love, fatherhood, death, betrayal, revenge, friendship, and rising to destiny. Expand
  12. Aug 14, 2011
    9
    This movie was simply well made. The songs were memorable and amazing, the characters were believable (and arguably acted more human than many movies with human actors), and the animation was vibrant and lush, depicting a unique style of art, and still getting the movements of the characters down pat. The story really digs deep into Simba's character, which leaves the other characters a bit stagnant, but that's not to say they aren't developed. They each have their own part to play in the story. The comic relief detracts from the heavier story just enough to keep the feature from being too depressing (it is disney, they like a lighter feel to their movies). Now, on the controversy some people have brought up about "Disney ripping off 'Kimba: The White Lion'", I looked into it, and in terms of story and characters, it seems the two are separate. Some art direction seems to have gone the same direction, although Disney and the guys who did Kimba did start working together on a project related to Kimba. The project was scrapped, but the people who had worked on the project probably decided to adapt some concept art to Lion King. Btw, the similarity of the names "Simba" and "Kimba" is probably coincidental, considering most of the names in "The Lion King" are based on Swahili words (simba means 'lion'). Regardless, it is a solid movie that I recommend. Expand
  13. Jan 7, 2012
    10
    An epic and lovely adventure in every way, this animated production is definitely an icon of its genre. First of all the storyline is great, very unique and funny that will submerge you into a whole new world inside this movie with its very well made visual production and style. The plot is interesting and entertaining too, with a friendly story and a light atmosphere that takes exiting shifts as it progresses introducing different scenarios that all together construct a beautiful movie. The characters are just adorable with charming performances, and often a musical number with a memorable soundtrack is included that adds to the wonderful experience this is from beginning to end. Expand
  14. OmarA.
    Apr 4, 2004
    10
    The Lion King is more than a 10 I give it a 100. The Lion King is the best movie I have ever seen!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  15. KevinG.
    Aug 13, 2008
    10
    The best Disney film ever drawn.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  16. Mandys
    Apr 3, 2008
    10
    best film ever!!!! camera angles are very great! detail of shading in the characters, backgrounds and the way the film has been animated couldn't have been any better. people who don't see the sense of the film are just brainless and don't have any kind of imagination and a sense of seing films in a different way! it's the best traditional animated film by far and i wish there will be more films like that in future. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  17. YoonMinC.
    Oct 10, 2003
    4
    Wonderfully animated but otherwise very stupid movie, even for kids. I know it's a cartoon but why are all the animals happily greeting the birth of a lion cub? And, why if the King and Queen lions sound black, does the cub sound like Matthew Broderick? Stupid pompous cartoon for kids. And the songs suck.
    • 0 of 5 users said yes
  18. KeithS.
    Mar 19, 2003
    2
    The story of Hamlet as told by Disney, through a lion, by way of Osama Tuzuka's "Kimba the White Lion." Putting aside where Disney generated the idea from, this movie clearly delivers a solid emotional punch. However, you have to ignore, or not notice, the variety of plot discrepencies, shut your eyes to "clicky" animation (which anyone in the ani field can point out), and try not to be insulted by the racial stereotyping. While the film veers off into the land of symbollism a couple of times, altering the subjective POV for no reason, and -- at one critical point -- fumbling its way into a Leni Reifenstahl remake, these things do nothing to the story which, in the end, still has more holes in it than the good ol' fashioned proverbial Swiss cheese. Those professionals who enjoyed it should try to stop enjoying the free trips to Disney World and start watching the movies. Expand
    • 0 of 5 users said yes
  19. Traustik
    Mar 2, 2003
    0
    Never really got it.
    • 0 of 3 users said yes
  20. GustavoH.R.
    Jan 11, 2004
    10
    An animated tear-jerker. And a glorious one at that.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  21. KellyJ.
    May 12, 2004
    10
    If i could I would give this movie a 13! Best Movie since Beauty and the Beast.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  22. GlennM.
    Dec 14, 2005
    10
    This is the greatest Disney film of all time and possibly the most greatest cultural achievment of the the 20th century. I dont feel these critic reviews are accurate because they only watched this once and did not fully grasp the brilliance of this fim in its entirity.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  23. AlexJ.
    Feb 22, 2005
    10
    Are you guys crazy? How can you give 0 or 3 to such a classic movie? If you don't like it, then you have a big problem as far as taste is concerned. Lion King is probably the best cartoon ever made. It is worth more than the Universal Acclaim Score. It is worth a nice and clean 10.0.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  24. MattP.
    Jun 7, 2005
    10
    It's a great children's film.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  25. Vixi
    Jul 18, 2005
    10
    This was the last great Disney film - and in my opinion the best. I don't understand how anyone could give it a low score. So, OK, all the animals do celebrate at the beginning, but to mark it down because of this is missing the point - it's like taking Lord of the Rings and saying 'thats a bad film because those creatures don't exist.' It is great entertainment with fantastic songs and a powerful storyline - way better than the pixar stuff that's taken over. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  26. Eric
    Mar 17, 2006
    9
    THis film is a definite masterpiece, nearly flawless. The story is excellently told, the soundtrack is breathtaking. The animation is a feast for the eyes. There's plenty of humor for adults and kids. This has classic written all over it.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  27. Sander
    May 1, 2008
    0
    Fuck Disney. They RIPPED-OFF Kimba the white lion, without even giving any credit to Ozamu Tesuka, the creator.
    • 0 of 20 users said yes
  28. NickL.
    Jul 23, 2008
    10
    i love this film so much. I used to watch it when i was little but i didn't really understand the meaning of this film. before, it was just a film which entertained me. now after i watched it, not only does it entertain me but also gives me a message. This film is truly the best film ever made, it's entertaining, friendly, funny and makes me feel like a new person. i rate this movie an 11. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  29. PaulM.
    Mar 16, 2003
    10
    Saw it as a youngster and loved it. And even now, I say it's the greatest Disney movie ever made.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  30. G.M.D.K
    Dec 4, 2004
    10
    One of the best films of all time!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  31. Paul
    Feb 7, 2004
    10
    How can you not like this movie???
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  32. [Anonymous]
    Mar 28, 2004
    10
    BEST MOVIE EVER!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  33. DanC.
    Apr 14, 2004
    10
    Hakuna Matata!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  34. MelissaG.
    Jun 16, 2004
    10
    It's the best, seriously. I love it all.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  35. KittyC.
    Jul 24, 2004
    9
    Okay, so in my opinion, this isn't worth the Universal Acclaim Score. However, it is highly entertaining and a good Disney film.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  36. EmilyW.
    Dec 25, 2005
    10
    This is one of my favourite films of all time. I remember seeing when i was younger (i'm 17 now!) and i recall the fact that i thought it was brilliant the first time i watched it, and it still is!!! From the start of the opening song, it continues to move you throughtout the movie. When Mufasa dies i cry so much!!! It still gets me everytime!!! The first time i saw this movie was also the first time i cried at a movie (so my mum says!!). Apparently a boy saw this film when his own father died and it helped him get through it. So this film means a lot to other people as well. Uh, such a fantastic film!!! The songs were great awell!!! WATCH IT!!! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  37. ChrisS.
    Aug 1, 2005
    9
    One of the top Disney films of all time.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  38. PatrickD.
    Sep 10, 2005
    10
    A great Disney movie. For all you people who immedetly reject it becasue its Disney, I have to say: It has a better plot than your Kill Bill movies.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  39. MandieQ
    Dec 8, 2006
    10
    Lion King is a wonderful movie for kids... Some people not like the miovie because euther they don't have a good enough imagination to appricate it funny characters or they are just to old to like disneyclassic
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  40. AliceM.
    Feb 12, 2006
    10
    Can i start with who ever anoymnus is, is out of his/her mind. There isn't a song every other minute for one and honesly the lion king wouldn't be half as good without the music. Disney is serious since wen hav they done a movie like that now. I mean the incredibles that was one of the mist popular films for kids not blade. Yeahe things change now and then but Disney are still the most respected film makers of all time. It's not made for kids anyway why does everyone say that Disney touches the heart of any human being who has one. They are emence. Anyway!! Lion KIng is just amazing it has everything a good film needs when i say everything i mean it. It's a film you just can't fault. At school we are doin my favourite film project in English I'm doing Lion King. I'm 13 yet i still love it to bits and so do all my mates. Even if Disney made films just for kids it wouldn't matter because to be honest growing old is compulsery but growing up is optinal and everyone has a kid inside! Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  41. Tino
    Aug 12, 2006
    10
    This is just the best movie that Diney has made. It's my favortie too. I'm 18 years old and I still watch the movie over and over again. The best music, the best animation, what else can you want?
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  42. NedP.
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    I usually don't care for animated movies but this film is the real deal, this is one of disney's best animated moviesif not the best. The animation is top notch and flawless. This film also features superb work from the vocal cast James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Whoopi Goldberg. This is a standout.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  43. JoshG.
    Jun 22, 2007
    10
    This is probably the best movie disney ever created. It is one of the few movies that makes me laugh, cry, and it's very touching at the same time. I never saw this movie until I was about twelve, which I really regret. It teaches about pride, facing your fears, and many other things. Simba is one of the best characters Disney will probably ever make. I almost cry whenever I think about it. I really hope they make another Lion King movie. Thank you, disney, for this great classic. Expand
    • 0 of 1 users said yes
  44. JohnM
    Jan 20, 2009
    10
    Agreeing with most of the reviews, I have to say this is my all time most favorite movie that Disney has created even though it was created in 1994. I first watched it when I was very little and never understood the true meaning of what was going on, but thought of it as a sort of comical movie with some sad bits. I admit that I cried at the point where Mufassa had died, but only a true film artist could give such emotion into a movie. Now that I have watched it a few more times, I get the full view of the movie and understand what I did not before. This is one of the only movies that I know of that has been this extraordinary and well thought out. I give tremendous respect to the creators of the excellent animation. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  45. J
    Feb 21, 2009
    10
    The is the most amazing film ever created by disney. I cannot imagine anything they could have done better. It is a memerable classic, and touches the heart of young and old alike.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  46. [Anonymous]
    Dec 26, 2002
    3
    It's ok, but didn't like it.
    • 0 of 4 users said yes
  47. Hades
    Jan 14, 2003
    3
    I never really found this movie appealing in the slightest, even when i was young and it was a "new" film. Good for the kids i guess but not some epic life changing event at all.
    • 0 of 5 users said yes
  48. raVen
    Oct 25, 2003
    9
    Go on -- see it again. Disney simply refuses to make them like this anymore, and that's sad. After renting this, I suggest you work your way backward. Hunchback, Beauty and the Beast, The Rescuers movies, Aladdin, Little Mermaid, Jungle Book, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, all of them... ...and remember the excellence we used to expect from Disney before they became addicted to CGI. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  49. MitchH.
    Apr 23, 2003
    10
    Probably one of the best Disney films. It packs a powerful story that deals with a lot, death of a father and finding out who you really are. This is a lso a very funny movie with excellent animation. Kids will love it and adults too. I loved this movie.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  50. NicoK.
    May 21, 2003
    10
    Best 2D animated Disney film. No exaggeration.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  51. ElizabethK.
    Feb 13, 2004
    10
    It is the best movie I have ever seen.How can you not like it.If you gave it a zero you are weird.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  52. RoastBeef
    Apr 14, 2004
    9
    A pure Disney classic!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  53. SneiblyM.
    Apr 14, 2004
    10
    I wish i was a lion.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  54. AndrewM.
    May 17, 2004
    9
    Gratifying Disney classic that conjures more emotions in 90 mins than one would have thought possible. Like others of the genre, it is a cliched film but this doesn't detract from the experience. Each character in TLK evokes a different response from the viewer but all are as memorable as each other. I'm not a real musical lover but all of the songs in this film are brilliant compositions and perfectly situated in the storyline. Never a dull moment, this film will beguile all who cross its path. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  55. liz
    May 13, 2005
    10
    R U guys crazy who gave it a 1-3?this movie is the best pure disney movie of ALL time,no ifs,ands,or buts end of story,bye bye.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  56. IvyP.
    Jul 12, 2005
    10
    This is an awesome movie! Its got emotion, humour and an excellent storyline! People, this is a true classic!!
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  57. GeorgeP.
    Dec 4, 2006
    10
    The thing that makes this movie truly a masterpiece is the fact that it deals with real life. I believe this movie was created to present the meaning of the greatest thing that human beings face.This is the circle of life. I watched this film when I was six and it really stigmatized my life(I'm 18 now).The combination of the melanholic and celebrating soundtrack together with the vivid characters make this movie so wonderful and appealing to all ages.This is definitely one of Disney's greatest successes that has been a strong example to many kids all over the world incuding me. It has beautifully taught us about the meaning and the values of life. This film will always be in our hearts. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  58. Oct 6, 2010
    10
    A classic that will live forever in the hearts of kids who grew up watching this movie, like me. I am really shocked that the movie doesn't have a high user score. Oh well, Hakuna Matata, no worries!
  59. Oct 4, 2010
    10
    A timeless Disney classic that soars near the top of the list of 'Best animated films of all time'. Heartfelt, featuring a stunning musical score and superbly animated, this is one of Disney's finest achievements, and a must watch for fans of animated films.
  60. Jun 11, 2011
    10
    While the Disney Renaissance presented us such great classics like "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty and the Beast", and "Aladdin", they released another movie that has talking lions and other talking animals and such great wonder also known as "The Lion King". Before I begin, let me ask one question: Why is it that every movie you have saw just literally become such great classics? It's because of their creative efforts and mere pride and this movie is one of them. The story tells of a young cub named Simba (Jonathan Taylor Thomas), the son of Mufasa (James Earl Jones) who is destined to become king of the Pride Rock. One day, Simba's ruthless evil uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons) plots to take over Pride Rock by killing his father and tricks Simba into feeling guilty which causes him to flee from the kingdom never to return. Once he disappears, he meets two friends named Timon, a meek rat, and Pumbaa, a warthog who helps teach him the meaning of "Hakuna Matata". A few years later, after reuniting with his friend Nala, Simba, now an adult (Matthew Broderick) realizes that he doesn't know who he is anymore and is aware that Scar has destroyed everything that the lions had hunted for. He is then persuaded to return to Pride Rock and must overthrow his uncle to restore the kingdom to its rightful place. After its success at the box office with $783 dollars which marks this movie as the 32nd highest grossing feature film, everything else has been praised due to Disney and their intelligence. The music score by Hans Zimmer and the songs written by Elton John and Tim Rice were considered to be successful in cinema history, The animation and characters were very memorable, The acting was superb and the cinematography was terrific. The Lion King is one of the greatest animated movies of all time and is one of my childhood favorites that will teach me that this movie means no worries. Thank you Disney. With your charm and brilliance, a thumbs up from me. 10/10 Expand
  61. Nov 20, 2011
    9
    Its one of the greatest animation films of all time for a reason (if not the greatest). The Lion King is great from start to finish. I really enjoyed it and I am confused that it has recieved such a low score from critics and users when its so much better then that.
  62. Nov 15, 2011
    10
    A masterful film that is the absolute best from Disney. I say this is my favorite animated film of all time, if not my overall favorite. Disney put their best effort into this film, and all the haters can suck Mufasa's nuts. 10/10
  63. Apr 18, 2011
    10
    I first watched The Lion King when I was eight, and enjoyed it for all the quirky characters. But after rewatching it years later, I discovered the deeper meaning behind it. This is one of my favorite movies of all time, and is the last epic disney movie. They could have done better with Lion King 2, but you cant win all the battles. And to the people that said that this is a rip off of Kimba the White Lion, What the **** are you talking about? I read the plot line, its about humans trying to kill animals. I dont understand your point of view to this movie. And this is also probably one of the darkest things I have ever seen, and I saw Suckerpunch and played Portal. Expand
  64. Feb 19, 2011
    9
    This is one of Disney's best movies, it has likable characters, humor, action, drama, a great plot, ultimately this is one of the best movies ever a must see.
  65. Oct 31, 2011
    10
    This movie brings back so many childhood memories. I loved it then and I love it now and I will always love it. Recommend it HIGHLY. In my opinion, one of, if not the best, Disney movie
  66. Mar 14, 2011
    10
    Classic. Emotion, suspense, stunning visuals and audio, great storyline, entertainment- what more can you want from a movie? The Lion King is the best animated movie of all time. An epic story, but better visuals.
  67. May 29, 2011
    10
    The best animated movie of all time. And one of the greatest movie ever made! Every time I see The Lion King I get a special feeling inside me, something that I can't explain with words. The movie is so beautiful and the characters are memorable. The songs are excellent, the soundtrack made by Hans Zimmer is so touching and the opening scene itself are breathtaking. The Lion King is a true masterpiece. Expand
  68. Oct 9, 2011
    9
    A beautifully drawn animation allied with a strong narrative and fantastic musical numbers made "The Lion King" one of the Disney greatest accomplishments.
  69. Sep 21, 2011
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. PURELY BOOOOOORING the lion king was great when i was 6 but i recently watched this and thought what the hell was i thinking, THIS MOVE SUCKS!!! lame jokes, random singing, and terrible voice acting. my opinion: WORST DISNEY MOVIE EVER! Expand
  70. Feb 12, 2012
    10
    This is just a really great film made by Disney. For the majority of it, I was in hysterics (Timon and Pumbaa are just the most hilarious duo ever). It also has the saddest moment in film animation history, and even in film history. You can tell that the cast and the crew have certainly been having a field day with this one. Just love it.
  71. Nov 5, 2011
    10
    Emotionally resonant and beautifully animated. The Lion King stands tall within Disney's pantheon of classic family films. This should have gotten a Best Picture nomination at the1994 Oscars. 4/4 stars.
  72. Nov 18, 2011
    6
    The Lion King has great characters and a lot of memorable songs. I think that the story is thin and short though, which makes the idea of the film very simple.
  73. Nov 16, 2011
    10
    Hands down one of the greatest movies of all time, if not the best animated one. Only few movies can take a very sad moment and then turn around and make you life when just a few minutes.
  74. May 6, 2012
    8
    Who would believe this is my first time watch this classic Disney jewel in the crown and the location was ruefully in the plane. After last year's mega-successful re-entering into 3D multiplexes, clearly it becomes more urgent for me to cancel it from my unfinished masterpiece list (there are more horrifying ones on my list which I wish I could show it here). THE LION KING is a timeless artwork, it's technical index could not remain its cutting-edge 2D advances in 1994, the story nevertheless is in perfect pitch for audience from every degree of ages, the HAMLET-inspired plot could feasibly find more evocation with adult groups while the colorful appealing is irresistible for youngsters. It's an archetypical win-win Disney Animation. The narrative is tightly intriguing, the O.S.T. is top-notch although I can hardly admit Elton John’s voice is agelessly stunning but the tune of CIRCLE OF LIFE nostalgically strikes a chord to me (which serves as my initial introduction to the western pop music region). Another great merit originates from Jeremy Irons' hypnotically appealing British accent, which has transferred so much vigor to his villainous character. Apart from the theatrical outline, the bona fide comedic parts are also generous, the highlight without question belongs to “hakuna matata”, which has been elevated as a motto of life. By far I could only give the film an 8 out 10, in the future maybe I can procure a second chance with at least a HD version (3D should be spared notwithstanding), THE LION KING is Disney’s apex of its 2D journey, and its longevity will testify that animation is an inseparable part of the family tree of film history, and it will always stun us commercially, technically and artistically. Expand
  75. Apr 2, 2012
    10
    An absolute masterpiece. A truly wonderful film for the whole family. This movie is a cartoon but it is more compelling, emotional then most non animated films. Truly spectacular.
  76. Mar 26, 2012
    10
    You can't go wrong with classic Disney. The Lion King is phenomenal in every aspect - the songs, the characters, the animation, and the musical score by Hans Zimmer. It's an amazing movie and it's guaranteed to entertain people of all ages for years to come.
  77. Mar 26, 2012
    10
    When Simba is young he is naive to the world. Like any child he easily believes almost anything someone tells him and he is eager to discover new things. When his father tells him that one day he will to be king, Simba immediately gets that sparkle of astonishment in his eyes. However being the naive child he is, he thinks being king is all about having power and just doing what he wants. This can symbolize the way kids think when they are little, they think growing up means you can boss around anyone you want and you have no responsibility. As he goes into exile he develops a more carefree attitude and thinks he has found what it means to be an adult. Like many of us when we were teens, we didn’t care for a lot of things and we would kind of push away our family members and have this rebellious phase. But it isn’t until we become older that we have to realize it is time to grow up. That is when we really learn what we have to do and step up. Which Simba does when he gets a message from his father. What makes Simba such a powerful character is that no matter who we are we can relate to him because some of the situations and behaviors he has most of us did too. The movie is filled with great spiritual and deeper messages. One powerful scene I can think of is when Simba’s paw falls into Mufasa’s paw print. It tells Simba that he has to fill in the footsteps of this great lion. We can see the fear in Simba’s eyes he wonder, “will I be able to do this?” Another theme the movie deals with is death. The movie is very blunt on death. On screen we see Mufasa die and a baby cub trying wake up the carcass. “The Lion King” tells us that death is inevitable and we have to deal with it. We can’t just stop living our lives. But it also says that the person we lost always lives within us through their wisdom our how they helped develop you into the person you are. The characters in “The Lion King” are great. We can relate to them and we also have someone like them in our own lives. Mufasa, father of Simba, is probably one of the most memorable characters in this movie even though he is only on screen for a short amount of time. He is powerful and intimidating, while at the same time lovable and protective. His wisdom guides Simba through the film and develops him into the man he has to be. Scar, Simba’s uncle, is a great villain character. He is funny, frightening, and very intelligent. He behaves as the person in our lives that want nothing more than to see us get harmed. He doesn’t show his true intentions and at times feels as if he wants to help, but in reality he just wants to see failure. Timon and Pumba are the comic relief, but we all have people like this in our lives. They teach Simba how to move on and don’t let the past hold you back. Even though they bestow a carefree lifestyle on Simba, they wish nothing, but the best for him. When he needs help these two are always ready back him up, like any friend. All the characters are great and very relate able. The music is beautiful in this movie and I can promise that you will be humming along during and after the movie is over. It capture the spiritual and epic vibe of the movie to a point of pure magic. “The Lion King” is a fantastic movie that entices you into the story, never once leaving the epic feel. From probably one of the greatest movie intros to the climactic battle to the triumphant pose at the end, the movie comes full circle. In my opinion I believe it to be the best animated film and one of the best movies ever made. It is epic, deep, funny, and very emotional. Epic in scope and Shakespearean in tone. Kids will have fun, adult will reflect back on their own lives, and it’s just a perfect film. I give “The Lion King” 5/5, beautifully animated, catchy songs, a story anyone can relate too, and just a great epic. Now the movie is still fantastic, but what did I think if the 3D? Well i thought it was pretty good, not the best. The 3D isn’t up to par with say Avatar, but it is the best use of 3D in an animated film that I’ve seen. Haven’t seen “How To Train Your Dragon” or “Tangled” in 3D. But it does excite me to see more hand drawn movies in 3D. There is a great scene where Zazu is flying and it really feels as if he is right there in front of you. I’m not a big fan of 3D, but when used right I won’t complain. I give the 3D , 4/5, not completely mind blowing, but effective. ”Awesomeness” Expand
Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 14 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 14
  2. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Reviewed by: Robert Faires
    78
    It's a thumping good adventure.