Next week Disney unveils their latest remake of one of their animated classics, and it has potential to be their biggest one yet – THE LION KING. The movie had its Hollywood premiere last night, with stars Beyonce Knowles, Donald Glover, Billy Eichner, Beyonce Knowles, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen, Beyonce Knowles, John Oliver, Alfre Woodard, Keegan-Michael Key and Beyonce Knowles walking the red carpet. A batch of critics were able to see the movie as well, and now the first reactions have hit social media. Is this another so-so remake like this year’s DUMBO, or is it on par with the critically acclaimed work of Jon Favreau’s last Disney movie, THE JUNGLE BOOK?
According to the first reactions, this new version of Disney’s biggest animated movie is certainly more the latter, with critics praising the movie not only for its jaw-dropping visual effects but its terrific voice cast, music and changes to the story that expands on the material in meaningful ways. As for those visual effects, though, all the posts make note of just how impressive they are, with many saying it will change the way we look at movies forever, with the photorealistic animals and environments brought to life with mind-blowing effect.
[SEE MORE]
Other elements getting praise are the performances from Eichner and Rogen as Timon and Pumbaa, as well as Ejiofor’s take on Scar, Glover as Simba and Beyonce’s turn as Nala. She also debuted a new song from the soundtrack last night, “Spirit”, which is giving people all the feels.
Along with all the praise there are a few reactions that say the movie doesn’t always work on all fronts, namely how the CGI doesn’t allow for the best emoting from the animal cast, and that it may be too similar in story and tone to the original for older audiences. But still, it seems there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and, as some critics said, it could indeed make all the money.
[SEE MORE]
Yours truly will be seeing the movie today, so be sure to stick around for when the review embargo lifts for my full reaction!
THE LION KING is in theaters July 19.